Central Hawke’s Bay District, Hastings District and Napier City councils have convened a Governance Group to oversee the next phases of establishing a new jointly owned water services organisation owned by the three Councils.

The Hawke’s Bay Water Services Joint Committee consists of the three mayors, one additional elected member from each council and an independent Chair.

At its inaugural meeting, the Joint Committee appointed Jon Nichols as Independent Chair, with Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise named Deputy Chair.

The Committee’s immediate priority is to appoint an Establishment Advisory Board that will provide strategic oversight and direction to the project, including through the process of moving the water services from the three councils to the new combined entity. The Councils three Chief Executives will also play a key role in the formation of the new entity.

Jon Nichols brings extensive governance experience to the role. Currently Chair of Hawke’s Bay Airport Ltd, he also holds directorship positions in several organisations, including Unison Networks Ltd, ETEL and Eastland Generation. He has previously been a director of Napier Port and other organisations including Centralines and Eastland Group.

Mr Nichols says he looks forward to working closely with the partner councils to progress this important project of establishing a joint entity that will deliver sustainable water services across the region.

“This project offers a unique opportunity to enhance and future-proof water infrastructure and services for the communities of Hawke’s Bay, ensuring reliable delivery now and for generations to come.”

The three councils submitted their joint Water Services Delivery Plan to the Department of Internal Affairs in early September. The plan is currently under review, with feedback expected by the end of October. The new entity will transition to full operations by 1 July 2027.

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