New water regulator a vital move
I applaud the Government’s move to create a new regulator to monitor the way drinking water is managed in Aotearoa.
The new proposal stems from the inquiry into the Havelock North water crisis in 2016, which was linked to four deaths and left more than 5000 people ill. The national regulator will also allow the government to strengthen its stewardship of wastewater and stormwater services.
The inquiry that followed Havelock North established a clear need for change. The new regulator will create consistency and focus on what has become a significant issue for Councils and residents right across the country.
I do think it's important to acknowledge that the distribution of clean drinking water is made more difficult in New Zealand by our geography. Meeting the high standards required can become an expensive process, particularly in areas of low population density.
However, in the wake of Havelock North, it became clear that the delivery of quality drinking water to many areas of the country was below the public’s expectations. We must now step up and respond.
The Government announcement included a provision that transitional arrangements will be put in place which will allow water suppliers up to five years to adjust to the regulations.
This proposal is a definite step in the right direction. However, we also need to be future-focused and ensure this new legislation is fit-for-purpose. The impacts of climate change, increased community expectations around environmental outcomes and recognition of Maori rights and interests in freshwater must also be considered.
Local government and industry representatives must work collaboratively to deliver a quality outcome. This should be done fairly, recognising that some communities will struggle to meet the challenge of upgrading. These communities may need support (both expertise and funding) to meet the standards expected by New Zealanders.
I welcome your thoughts, Paul
All opinions expressed on LinkedIn are my own, and should not be considered the position of ACENZ.
Retired Advisor, Waste Minimisation and Sustainability at Hutt City Council
5 年We have to hope their focus is on affordable and achievable action!
Technical Director - Site Contamination at Riley Consultants
5 年I agree Paul - this is a necessary first step, but only the start of what is required to be funded and rolled out, in close consultation with key stakeholders. One of the Havelock North government inquiry conclusions: over three quarters of a million New Zealanders are currently drinking water that is "not demonstrably safe" - a pretty clear wake-up call and challenge for water suppliers and regulators.