October 21, 2022
Co-governance new reality says Mahuta
The Minister for Local Government, Nanaia Mahuta, says the benefits of the Three Waters proposals will far outweigh any disadvantages.
Opposition to the scheme to shift management of fresh water, waste water and storm water infrastructure to four large regional entities was a major feature of the local government elections.
Ms Mahuta says some of the opposition seemed to be driven not about economics or effectiveness but racist tropes about co-governance.
“People who are often commenting on co-governance really don’t want Maori sitting around the table but this is the new reality of improved decision-making,” she says.
Minister Mahuta says Maori will bring a much-needed emphasis on long-term sustainability to water management – which is good for all New Zealanders.