Hon NANAIA MAHUTA (Minister of Local Government): Xiexie, Mr Speaker. Yes, there is near universal agreement that the status quo is not sustainable. Our three waters assets are now liabilities, and we need to position the system in a way where they are best placed to enable an estimated $120 billion to $180 billion investment needed over 30 years. Without action, the situation for councils and communities is only going to get worse. Over the past eight weeks, I've received considerable feedback from councils which has included a wide range of issues such as governance arrangements, accountability and performance expectations, ensuring assets remain in public ownership, maintaining local voice, especially in smaller areas, and that consumer ratepayer benefits must be demonstrated. These are important topics, and I'm committed to keeping the conversation going on how we progress the reforms in a way that respects the views represented from councils on behalf of their communities. In particular, I'm alert to the concerns that positive, effective relationships councils have built with partners like iwi and business with regards to water are important and should not be lost in the process of reform. Indeed, such relationships should enhance this process.