Selwyn Council’s Water Entity Faces Candidate Opposition

The Selwyn District Council’s decision to establish a new water services council-controlled organisation (WSCCO), named Selwyn Water Ltd, has met significant opposition from a majority of potential councillors. Approved in a contentious 6-5 vote in April, this initiative aims to manage the district’s drinking water and wastewater services. Despite the council’s support, a substantial 86% of 423 submitters expressed a preference for keeping these services in-house.

In July, Selwyn became the first council in New Zealand to have its water services delivery plan approved by the government. The Selwyn Times surveyed all 28 new council candidates regarding their stance on the new water entity. Only two candidates, Sarah Barnsley from the Kā Puna Springs Ward and at-large candidate Barry Mackenzie, endorsed the council’s decision.

Barnsley stated, “In principle, a specialist CCO focused solely on water management is the right move when Selwyn faces increasing water challenges. The CCO provides sharper focus, accountability, and the ability to plan and invest long term.” Mackenzie echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the potential for collaboration with neighbouring districts like Ashburton and Waimakariri to create a more efficient water delivery system.

Among the other candidates, 22 expressed a preference for maintaining in-house services. Mayoral candidate Brad Mannering, alongside at-large candidate Calvin Payne and Tawera Malvern Ward candidate Sharn Nu’u, mentioned that they would have preferred to delay a decision until further information was available. Mannering remarked, “I believe we should have waited until we knew exactly what central government intended… before committing ratepayer money.”

Interestingly, Mannering, who was a late entry into the mayoral race, did not submit feedback during the council’s consultation period in March. He admitted, “To be honest it was just something that was not on my radar.”

Candidates from the Kā Puna Springs Ward, including Tim Pow and Karim Sabet, revealed differing views on the issue. Pow indicated he would have abstained, while Sabet expressed concerns over the government’s evolving framework, stating it would have complicated decision-making.

At-large candidate Samatha Samuel emphasized the need for an evaluation of the council’s capacity to meet new regulations before casting a vote. She said, “After evaluation, I would have voted accordingly.”

Among the incumbents seeking re-election, Mayor Sam Broughton and Rolleston Ward councillor Sophie McInnes supported the formation of Selwyn Water, while Lydia Gliddon from the Malvern Ward and Elizabeth Mundt from the Ellesmere Ward opposed it.

Gliddon noted, “I voted against establishing the CCO and still feel that in-house, managed well, is viable.” She also highlighted the potential costs and legal obligations that would arise from reversing the decision, stating, “Reversing it would require a ministerial sign-off.”

Broughton has not indicated whether he would support a reversal. The council’s chief executive, Sharon Mason, clarified that if the new council wishes to reconsider the Selwyn Water decision, it would need to conduct a comprehensive review under the Local Government Act and follow specific procedures outlined in the Local Government (Water Services) Act 2025.

Mason reported the council has already invested $1,985,183 in establishment costs for Selwyn Water, with an additional $9 million allocated for working capital. So far, $2 million has been drawn down to cover operational expenses, including staffing.

The council has approved an interim constitution for Selwyn Water, which began operations in July. A statement of expectations and an asset transfer agreement are expected to be finalized by September 17, with the transfer of water assets scheduled for December 20.

Julie Hands, head of legal and risk for the council, suggested a 12-month review of Selwyn Water. She stated, “We want to give them some level of certainty under the conditions under which they operate…and give just enough time for that first phase of setup for the council.”

As the newly elected council begins its term, the future of Selwyn Water Ltd remains uncertain, with many candidates advocating for further scrutiny and transparency surrounding the district’s water management.