The government has unveiled its shake-up of the three waters reforms, abandoning plans to establish four mega water entities.
Instead it will create 10, which will still be owned by local councils and each be run by a board.
In making the announcement, the Prime Minister says the new model will deal with the current water infrastructure problems, while ensuring reforms are affordable.
Ratepayers appear to save less money annually compared with the original plan.
Max Towle spoke to Helen Worboys is the Manawatu District mayor, and co-chair of Communities 4 Local Democracy.