The Marlborough Waters board was formally welcomed yesterday at a mihi whakatau, marking another important step in the establishment of the new water services organisation.
Board members joined councillors, staff and iwi representatives for the welcome, which provided an opportunity to acknowledge the significance of the work ahead and the board’s role in overseeing the future delivery of Marlborough’s drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services.
Mayor Nadine Taylor said the mihi whakatau was an appropriate way to formally welcome the board and recognise the beginning of its work together.
“This board has an important responsibility ahead of it. Marlborough Waters will provide essential services that households, businesses and communities across Marlborough rely on, and strong governance will be critical to its success,” Mayor Taylor said.
“Today was an opportunity to bring the board together, welcome its members to Marlborough Waters and acknowledge the responsibility they are taking on for our communities.”
The board will provide governance and strategic oversight as Marlborough Waters prepares to take responsibility for the district’s water services.
Its immediate focus will include becoming familiar with the organisation, its assets and infrastructure, financial position, regulatory requirements and the programme of work required ahead of the transition.
Marlborough Waters Board Chair Warren McNabb said the mihi whakatau marked the beginning of an important period for the board.
“I’d like to thank the mayor, councillors and council staff for their hard work to get us to this point.”
“We recognise the trust being placed in us and the importance of providing safe, reliable and sustainable water services for Marlborough,” Mr McNabb said.
“Our first priority is to build a strong understanding of the organisation and the challenges and opportunities ahead, while working closely with Council, staff and the wider community as Marlborough Waters is established.”
The board was appointed by Council earlier this year following an independent recruitment process.
Marlborough Waters will be responsible for the management and delivery of Marlborough’s drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services from 1 July 2027.
