Watercare request for due diligence information

The Local Government (Auckland Council) Bill proposes that Watercare integrating the Auckland region’s water industry as part of the reorganisation of Auckland’s local governance.

As part of this preparation, Watercare has briefed senior staff in the water industry, including Manukau Water Limited, about information which is likely to be required through a due diligence process.

Manukau City Council Strategy Director Grant Taylor says that both Watercare and Manukau City Council are clear that until the bill is enacted, there is no statutory mandate to request or provide the information.

“However, it is generally acknowledged that early collaborative work on what is likely to occur will assist in a smooth transition, which will have benefits to the overall merger process,” Mr Taylor says.

“The councils and the local water operators also need to ensure they only provide information which can legitimately be provided. I understand one of the parties has sought legal clarification which should be helpful to all involved.”