The urgent need to lift infrastructure investment, retain skills and ensure long term affordable water services will be the focus of a full day discussion amongst water sector leaders in Ōtautahi Christchurch on Monday (29 Sept).

Around 300 council, government representatives and consultants will delve into critical issues the new entities will be grappling with as they move to the implementation phase.

Water New Zealand chief executive, Gillian Blythe says the symposium will help sector leaders understand the responsibilities, procurement and compliance issues, along with the new financing and customer needs and requirements.

“We know that it won’t be business-as-usual for any organisation, even councils that have opted to continue to manage their own water supply.

“There are a lot of moving parts to get right to ensure a smooth transition to the new CCOs or ring-fenced inhouse business units.

“That’s why this is a key discussion ahead of the 10th IWA-ASPIRE and Water New Zealand Conference and Expo 2025 which starts on Tuesday.”

The theme of the joint conference is 'Empowering Tomorrow – Smart water solutions for resilient communities'.

“Water is front and centre of many of the global challenges we face – from climate change to pollution, resilient communities, water quality and scarcity.

“That’s why it’s vital that we share expertise and solutions with colleagues around the world."

The conference has attracted almost 2000 delegates, presenters and exhibitors from around 50 countries. It covers 200 technical presentations across thirteen separate streams.

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