15 September 2004

Positive review for Watercare

The operations of Auckland’s bulk water and sewage services supplier, Watercare Services Ltd, have been given the thumbs up in an independent, technical review by UK consultants Halcrow.

The review was jointly commissioned by Watercare and the Shareholders’ Representative Group and focused on Watercare’s cost efficiency.

It found that Watercare is a well-run company with many strengths. It also identified some areas where improvements could be made to assist Watercare’s progress in the right direction.

Six Auckland local authorities collectively own Watercare and the Shareholders’ Representative Group (SRG) was established to represent their interests.

Chairperson of the Watercare SRG, Councillor Bruce Hucker congratulated Watercare’s board and management on the positive findings of the review.

“This review is proof that the company is doing a good job for the Auckland region. I look forward to seeing even greater improvements,” he says.

Watercare chairperson Mr Graeme Hawkins believes the findings of the review confirm the positive direction Watercare has been taking.

“Watercare has implemented many new initiatives, particularly in recent years with initiatives like Project Improve. We will be able to build on these with the results of the review,” he says.

Halcrow, the consultants who undertook the review, have significant international experience in the water industry, having reviewed water businesses in both the UK and Australia.

Director of Halcrow, Jon Bateman, thanked Watercare for its co-operative attitude during the review process.

“It is obvious that Watercare is committed to continuous improvement of its business,” says Mr Bateman.

ENDS

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