Yet these standards we have successfully lobbied for represent a pivotal moment in our history, promising a 40% reduction in consenting costs and potentially saving our district millions.
But why stop there when we could save millions more?
That’s why I’m excited to inform you that Gore, Clutha, Central Otago, and Waitaki district councils have unanimously agreed to work together to investigate options for the delivery of water services into the future.
Among those options is a CCO (Council Controlled Organisation).
With Timaru, Waimate and Mackenzie district councils looking to join, we’d become the largest multi-council CCO in the South Island — representing one-third of all South Island councils.
Let me be crystal clear — the formation of a CCO isn’t surrendering control to Wellington bureaucrats, nor would we be shipping our assets to a bigger council — these organisations remain firmly local hands, with councils maintaining ownership and setting strategic direction.
We’re fighting for one-to-one shareholding, ensuring Gore’s voice carries exactly the same weight as our larger neighbours.
The economies of scale are too substantial to ignore, together, we’ll wield serious purchasing power and expertise.
Let’s face it, despite having some excellent water experts, we struggle to keep them.
A specialist wants career advancement opportunities that our small councils can’t provide individually, but a multi-regional entity changes that equation dramatically, attracting specialists.
Water infrastructure is bleeding our budgets dry and doing nothing isn’t an option unless we want eye-watering rates increases.
By pooling resources and continuing to fight against unrealistic standards we can finally put the brakes on these ever-increasing costs while improving service. These changes won’t happen overnight.
We plan to begin community consultation by the end of April and the transition will potentially start in 2027.
I’ve heard concerns about losing our local voice, and I take those seriously.
But I ask you this: would you rather have a seat at a table where decisions get made, or be left to fend entirely for ourselves with increasingly unaffordable infrastructure?
Our water services’ future is too important to leave to chance.
Make your voice heard in the upcoming consultations — after all, it’s our water, our rates, and our community at stake.
- A Word From Gore District Mayor Ben Bell
