NORTHLAND WATERS

 Northland Waters has appointed Kate Simmonds as its first chief executive. She will take up the role on 5 October. Born and raised in Northland and now living in Kerikeri, Simmonds has extensive experience in the water sector. Her involvement with Far North District Council water projects dates back to at least 2018, and she has subsequently worked as a water-services consultant.

From 1 July 2027, Northland Waters will take over the drinking-water and wastewater services currently provided by Northland's three district councils. It will service more than 120,000 customers and control approximately $1.4 billion of publicly owned water assets.

While a lot is known about Simmonds' qualifications and work history, her remuneration package has not yet been disclosed. LETTERBOX has spoken to people in the industry who indicated the salary is likely to be on a par with council chief executives in Northland, or possibly higher.

With a five-member board, a chief executive and the other appointments now being made, we find it difficult to see how Northland Waters will deliver the cost efficiencies promised by the Government. It has the hallmarks of another empire in the making.

We also doubt whether any reduction in the rates bill from your local council — assuming there is one — will be enough to offset the separate bill households will receive from Northland Waters.