How is Local Water Done Well being rolled out?

The policy is being implemented through three new bills.

The first, repealing the former Government’s three waters policy, was passed in February 2024.

The second bill - the Local Government (Water Services Preliminary Arrangements) Bill - was passed in August 2024. This bill establishes the Local Water Done Well framework and the preliminary arrangements for the new water system – including setting out Water Services Delivery Plans requirements and making it easier for councils to establish council-controlled organisations (CCOs) under the Local Government Act 2002.

The third bill - the Local Government Water Services Bill (due to be introduced in December 2024) will establish the enduring settings for the new water services system through:

• New delivery models for water services
• A new planning and accountability framework
• New financing options for councils
• New economic regulation regime
• Improved drinking water quality regulatory regime

It also includes other changes such as new approach for managing urban stormwater, new approach to wastewater standards, new mechanisms for the Minister to address problems facing water service providers, changes to how Taumata Arowai operates, and a change in approach to Te Mana o te Wai.

For more detailed information on the Local Water Done Well roll-out, visit the Department of Internal Affairs’ Water Services Policy and Legislation webpage.

The Department of Internal Affairs has provided councils with information about the Local Water Done Well policy decisions. Read the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) information for councils.