Water  |  Yesterday

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The delivery of water services will remain in Christchurch City Council’s control.

Christchurch City Council has confirmed that it will retain direct control of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater services, deciding on an In-House Delivery Model as part of the Government’s Local Water Done Well reforms.

The decision follows detailed analysis and public consultation, with strong community support for keeping water services under Council control. The in-house model allows the Council to continue integrating water service delivery with wider infrastructure planning and community outcomes, while providing flexibility to adapt over time.

Mayor Phil Mauger says the decision reflects the overwhelming message from the community.

“Christchurch people made it clear – they want their water services managed locally.

“We’ve listened to that feedback and made a decision that keeps direct control with the Council, while also committing to the improvements needed to ensure our water services are reliable, sustainable and future-proofed.”

The in-house model was one of three options evaluated in an Indicative Business Case. The alternatives – establishing either a Three Waters or Two Waters Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) – were also presented for public consultation in March.

Of the 681 submissions received during consultation, 612 submitters indicated a preference: 80% backed the In-House Model, 14% supported a Three-Waters CCO, and 6% favoured a hybrid Two-Waters CCO.

“People told us they value transparency and accountability. At the same time, they want assurance that we are planning and investing in water services wisely for the future,” says the Mayor.  

“This is a major step forward for our city. After years of uncertainty about how New Zealand will manage its water, we can now look to the future with confidence.

“This model gives us the best balance of local control, cost-effectiveness and long-term sustainability. Now it’s time to deliver.”  

Under the Local Water Done Well framework, all councils are required to submit a Water Services Delivery Plan to the Department of Internal Affairs by 3 September 2025, including its proposed water services delivery model. The Council will now focus on preparing this plan, which will outline how Christchurch will sustainably deliver and fund its water services, while meeting the Government’s strengthened regulatory and performance requirements.