Minister outlines vision for transformation at WaterNZ conference

18 October 2022

The Water New Zealand Conference & Expo 2022 is on this week in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

The industry is getting back together again this week, just a few months after the rescheduled 2021 conference, which took place in Hamilton in May.

Today, Minister Nanaia Mahuta spoke at the 2022 conference as a keynote speaker. She gave an overview of the significant progress that has been made by the Three Waters Reform Programme over the last few months.

The Water Services Entities Bill has been introduced and referred to the Finance and Expenditure Committee. The Bill received thousands of submissions, and the Committee is due to report back on the Bill in November.

Further three waters legislation will soon be introduced, outlining the detailed functions and powers of the four Water Services Entities, and to establish the economic regulation and consumer protection systems. The Minister said she believes this legislation will reflect international best practice, in a way that is tailored to Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique needs and environment.

In other areas of the programme, progress has been made in the National Transition Unit, who have been working closely with the industry workforce to prepare for a seamless transition as they carry their skills, knowledge, and relationships into secure roles in the new entities.

"Now is the time to be aspirational about what our water infrastructure will look like,” said the Minister. 

Minister Nanaia Mahuta a keynote speaker at the WaterNZ conference. Source: WaterNZ

Minster Mahuta spoke about laying the groundwork for a seamless transition into the Water Services Entities on 1 July 2021, with the help of all 67 councils and the workforce, to ensure the needs of their communities are taken care of during this process.

Visit the Water New Zealand website to learn more about the keynote speakers and highlights of the conference.