Southern councils are pooling their resources to keep the taps running

Central Otago, Clutha and Gore have signed off on a joint Water Services Delivery Plan - the first of its kind under the Government's Local Water Done Well framework.

From July 2027, Southern Water will manage drinking, waste and stormwater across the three districts.

It will be the largest joint entity in the South Island.

Clutha Chief Executive Steve Hill says it gives them a clear path to sustainable services and future growth.