Wellington Water encouraged by Office of the Auditor-General’s decision

This week’s decision from the Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) to not undertake a review of Wellington Water is a strong signal that recent efforts by the organisation to improve operations and achieve better value for money for ratepayers is working. 

“We have been liaising with the OAG for a number of months now, alongside our council shareholders and the Chair of the Wellington Water Committee. We have been fully transparent with the Office, upfront with the issues we’re tackling and the progress we’re making,” says Wellington Water Board Chair, Nick Leggett. “We’re confident we’re on the right track, so it was heartening to have them acknowledge our mahi.” 

In their decision, available on their website, the OAG noted improvements already made to procurement and contract management practices, along with ongoing work to strengthening financial controls, payment approvals, and promoting a positive culture where staff can raise risks and issues promptly. “In particular, many of the good changes already made are a direct result of our shift to a culture of listening and taking action,” adds Nick. 

The decision also outlines a clear expectation that Wellington Water regularly report its progress, something already underway. “Our residents deserve accountability and transparency, and making these progress reports accessible to the public helps achieve just that,” says Water Committee Chair Campbell Barry. These reports, updated quarterly, are available on Wellington Water’s website. 

“The Office’s role is to provide independent assurance over public sector spending and performance, so it’s encouraging that they’re acknowledging the work done by Wellington Water to deliver value for money for the region,” says Campbell. “Their decision supports the action taken by the Board and leadership over the past 12 month. Ratepayers and councillors should have confidence that the right decisions are being made now to set Metro Water up for success in the future. 

Equally important is their call for the Water Committee and shareholding councils to stay laser focused on implementation. “We must keep our foot on the pedal, and I trust that will continue post election.” 

“The OAG has indicated they will continue to monitor our progress, which is entirely appropriate given their role as an independent regulator,” says Nick. “We’re acutely aware of the fact that we’re spending ratepayers' money, and we will continue to work openly with the OAG and provide them with any information they need moving forward.”