Do nothing and a big bill is what New Zealanders might face if change does not happen. That's the conclusion of a ream of studies looking at water reform released by the government today.
The 600-pages of analysis estimate upgrading the decrepit and sometimes dangerous systems could cost up to $185 billion over the next three decades.
The systems for drinking water, storm water and sewage came under the microscope following the fatal Havelock North contamination scare in 2017.
It also followed this year's problems in eastern Otago where residents were forced to resort to tanker water after high lead levels were detected in the main supply.
Today's studies reinforce urgent reform is needed, and recommend consolidating the country's 67 council-owned and managed water service providers into a smaller group of suppliers.
Stuart Crosby is the president of Local Government NZ and is on the three waters working group.
He talks to Lisa Owen.
