Under this option, we would set up our own water organisation, which would be separate from our Council, but 100% owned by us.
The organisation would be fully responsible for all day-to-day operations, maintenance, planning for future water needs, and repaying any water-related debt.
We would be able to directly appoint the organisation’s directors and issue a Statement of Expectations to guide the organisation.
Estimated costs
this is what ratepayers could expect to pay on average for water (drinking water, stormwater, wastewater) under the proposed option.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|
 Local decision-making The water organisation would be focused solely on our district.
Seamless integration The organisation would be able to easily coordinate with out Council and share services. Accountability to Timaru only Reporting and accountability would be to the Council and to you as customers, through a combination of mechanisms. Easing of the Council's debt burden Water-related debt would move to the water organisation. However, the same community would be responsible for this borrowing. | More expensive option This option would probably be more expensive than if we joined a joint water services organisation – potentially increasing prices by around $190 a year. Limited opportunity for efficiencies We wouldn't benefit from economies of scale that might come from partnering with other councils, potentially increasing our long term operating costs. Competition for staff and contractors The organisation would need to compete with other larger water organisations for staff and contractors with experience in water services. |
Last updated: 15 May 2025