At the Council meeting on 16 December the Mackenzie District Council Councillors discussed the future of water services delivery for the district.
Earlier in 2025 the councillors approved a plan that kept water services in-house, managed in a stand-alone business unit. Councillors also passed a resolution stating that they may re-consider joining a Joint Water Services Organisation in the future.
Mackenzie’s Water Services Delivery Plan was submitted to Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) for their approval. The plan was not approved, and council was required to submit a revised plan by March 2026.
Since council made its original decision to retain delivery of water services in house, further details have been received relating to the requirements of government’s water reform program. Council has also had more time to explore and better understand the operational and financial implications of either delivery in house or establishing a third-party entity.
A report was presented to the Councillors on Tuesday 16 December which provided this additional information and analysis, and provided an opportunity for Councillors to re‑evaluate whether its previous decision to establish an internal Business Unit remains the preferred option or whether an alternative model should be considered to ensure compliance, affordability, and long‑term sustainability.
After discussion Council decided to withdraw their previous decision, and approved a resolution to work with Timaru District Council, and others who may wish to join, to create a joint Water Services Organisation. A Joint Governance Committee will be established to oversee this process.
Once details of the process have been finalised, council will provide further information on how the changes will impact residents and ratepayers.
The full report containing the supporting information is available in the online agenda on the Council’s website. The recording of the meeting will be available at the same location later this week: docspublished.com.au/mackenzie