New Legislation To Provide Affordable Water Services For New Zealanders
2022-12-08
The Water Services Economic Efficiency and Consumer Protection Bill and Water Services Legislation Bill have been introduced to Parliament today, following the passage of the Water Services Entities Act.
Once passed the legislation will ensure affordable drinking water, wastewater and stormwater can be provided to New Zealanders now and into the future.
“These Bills are an important step in addressing a fundamental cost of living issue that will affect all New Zealanders for decades to come if left unfixed,” Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta said.
“Independent research shows households are looking at water costs increasing to as much as $9,000 per year and the failure of basic water services if we do not act quickly,” Nanaia Mahuta said.
Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister David Clark said the Water Services Economic Efficiency and Consumer Protection Bill will ensure the future water infrastructure system provides greater service quality and consumer rights protection to all New Zealanders.
“The Government has listened closely to the feedback from councils and wider communities,” David Clark said.
“We have taken on board the desire for greater transparency by the water service entities and better water user representation by expanding the Consumer Advocacy Council’s remit so it can advocate on behalf of water services consumers.
Scoop Parliament, 08-12-22
; https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PA2212/S00085/new-legislation-to-provide-affordable-water-services-for-new-zealanders.htm