We’re proposing a new model for managing water services, which involves creating a Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) jointly managed by Waikato District Council and Hamilton City. It might be that other councils join later too. 

A CCO is basically a separate business owned by the councils. In this case it would be governed by an independent Board of Directors, appointed by a Shareholders’ Forum that includes representatives from Hamilton City, Waikato District, and Waikato-Tainui. These directors are chosen for their expertise in areas like finance, infrastructure, legal matters, and more. 

The model we are consulting on is an asset owning CCO where the CCO owns the plants, pipes and equipment (which must remain in public ownership). 

The Board will make important decisions about important water infrastructure projects, and each year, the CCO must report on its performance. New government regulations ensure the CCO meets standards for finances ,water quality and other measures. 

Other councils can join, but no other types of organisations can buy into the CCO, and it can’t be privatised, so water management stays with the councils. 

We’ve had success with CCOs before, like with Hamilton Airport and Co-Lab, and have worked well with Hamilton City on various projects. Both councils will have an equal vote in decisions, ensuring fair representation even if more councils join later. 

You can have your say on water services as part of our Long-Term Plan in April. Find more background on Local Water Done Well on our Water Matters page.