Members of Communities 4 Local Democracy He Hapori mō te Manapori (C4LD) were in Wellington today to celebrate the legislation to repeal Three Waters being introduced to parliament.

Communities 4 Local Democracy (C4LD) Co-chairs Waimakariri Mayor Dan Gordon and Manawatu Mayor Helen Worboys were in the Speaker's gallery today to hear the introduction of the repeal bill.

Mayor Dan Gordon says the member councils were thrilled the new government had delivered on their campaign promise to repeal the unpopular reform.

“The coalition Government all campaigned on repealing Three Waters, and they were elected on a mandate that opposed centralisation and the forced removal of community water assets.

“C4LD put forward a community-led, common sense alternative for water reform that sees higher standards delivered throughout the country while making sure local community have control and say over their assets. We welcome working with the new government on this model.”

Co-Chair Manawatu District Mayor Helen Worboys was delighted the Government had finally listened to communities.

“I can’t remember a reform proposal this unpopular and flawed. We welcome the opportunity to take the reins on behalf of our communities and put in place locally-led solutions.

“'Local Water Done Well' continues the work done by C4LD. It protects community property rights in their water assets, recognises that different areas are in different positions, and it encourages regional collaboration to address these differing needs.

“This is a model that can work for all communities around New Zealand.”

As part of its advocacy work, C4LD developed a detailed alternative plan for reform that would deliver the necessary infrastructure investment while respecting community property rights.

Communities 4 Local Democracy has published all its work on future models of water reform. They can be accessed at communities4localdemocracy.co.nz/ideas

Media Contact:

Stephen Doran / 027 202 7784 / info@communities4localdemocracy.co.nz