Commerce Commission to scrutinise Watercare's $15.2b plan

The Commerce Commission says it will closely scrutinise Watercare's new investment plans.

Watercare is Auckland's water and waste water provider and recently announced its $15.2 billion investment plan over 10 years.

The Commerce Commission Chair John Small says it will rigorously assess the proposal once they are formally submitted.

"Watercare's responsibility is to provide essential services and to be open and transparent with consumers about what it is proposing and why," he said.

At the end of July, Watercare unveiled the largest long-term infrastructure programme in its history.

In a statement, it said the $15.2b programme would include around $4b of "new and accelerated investment".

The Commerce Commission is the Crown Monitor for Watercare and economic regulator for water and waste water providers.

Small said he wanted to ensure they delivered lasting benefits to Aucklanders who ultimately pay for these investments through their water charges.

"As both Watercare's Crown Monitor and the economic regulator of water services, the Commission will fully scrutinise the expanded investment programme to assess whether it is appropriately prioritised, represents efficient expenditure, and delivers long-term benefits for Aucklanders," he said.