Council renews interest in southern water partnership option

The Central Otago District Council (CODC) has reaffirmed its decision to form a jointly owned Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) with its Southern Water Done Well partners – Gore and Clutha district councils.

At the meeting today in Alexandra (Tuesday 12 August 2025), the Council approved its Water Services Delivery Plan (WSDP), which sets out the future water services delivery model. Councils throughout New Zealand must submit their WSDPs to the Department of Internal Affairs by 3 September.

Central Otago District Mayor Tamah Alley said the joint Council water services entity was regionally focused, community-driven, and ensures that decisions about water services remain in local hands.

“We (SWDW councils) share a common goal to provide the best, most efficient services for our people. Working together in a joint CCO remains the best way for councils to achieve that goal for the people of today and the generations of tomorrow.”

Gore and Clutha district councils meet this afternoon (Tuesday) and tomorrow (Wednesday 13 August 2025), respectively, to consider the joint water services entity.