My last six-monthly rates bill from Western Bay of Plenty District Council included a Katikati stormwater charge of $409.12, a sewerage charge Katikati of $953.53 and western metered water – treatment and supply – charge of $371.24.
As the Government has told us, the Three Waters bill currently before Parliament will become law before Santa calls again. So can I have an assurance from the WBOP council that my next rates bill will be reduced by $1733.89, as other Santas will be taking over these functions?
Paul Whitehead, Katikati.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council corporate services general manager Adele Henderson responds:
Assuming the Water Services Entities Bills are passed by Government, then the effective date for the responsibility transfer to the new entities will be July 1, 2024. So Santa will call one more time before these changes, with council still responsible for the delivery of water services and will be charging rates accordingly.
We encourage everyone to visit our dedicated Three Waters webpage where you can keep up-to-date with the latest Three Waters reform announcements from both Government and council – what's new, what's coming up and what it means for the Western Bay of plenty. Visit: www.westernbay.govt.nz/three-waters-reform