28 November 2025
Tick of approval for West Coast water plan
The Secretary for Local Government has signed off on the West Coast Water Services Delivery Plan, confirming how drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services will be sustainably delivered and funded across the region over the next decade.
The approval confirms that Buller, Grey, and Westland District Councils will now be able to proceed with establishing a joint council-controlled organisation to manage water services on behalf of their communities.
The three Chief Executives welcomed the decision as an important milestone for the region.
Buller District Council Chief Executive, Simon Pickford, says the approval provides the certainty needed to move into the next phase.
“With the plan now approved, we can begin the detailed transition work required to set up the new entity.
Grey District Council Chief Executive, Joanne Soderlund, says the three councils have a shared commitment to delivering a strong and resilient service model.
“The next phase is about building a structure that supports consistent service delivery, strengthens long-term planning, and ensures our communities have confidence in how essential water services are managed.”
Westland District Council Chief Executive, Barbara Phillips, says collaboration will remain at the core of the work ahead.
“By working together, we can ensure that the joint CCO is fit for purpose, future-focused and responsive to the needs of the entire Coast.
Over the coming months, the three councils will work jointly on governance design, staffing, operational planning and corporate systems, supported by Crown Infrastructure Partners. The new organisation is scheduled to come into effect in July 2027.
For further information about Local Water Done Well and to read the adopted Water Services Delivery Plan, visit Local Water Done Well - lets talk buller for Buller, for Grey, Local Water Done Well – stormwater, wastewater & drinking water - Grey District Council, for Westland Local Water Done Well | Westland District Council
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