Ross Waugh appointed as independent chair of Water Services Committee

Waimate District Council has appointed Ross Waugh as the new Independent Chair of its in-house Water Services Committee, following a robust appointment process focused on securing high calibre, independent expertise to support the governance of the district’s water services.

Mayor Craig Rowley said the appointment reflects Council’s commitment to strong, informed governance at a time of increasing regulatory, technical, and financial complexity across the water sector.

“We are extremely pleased to be able to attract someone of Ross Waugh’s calibre to this role. His depth of experience in infrastructure asset management and engineering is widely recognised across the local government sector, both nationally and internationally.”

Mr Waugh is an experienced asset management and systems integration specialist with more than 40 years’ experience, including 27 years as a consultant working alongside councils across New Zealand. He is the founder and Director of Waugh Infrastructure Management Ltd and has worked with approximately 80 per cent of New Zealand councils over multiple long term planning cycles.

Importantly for our district, Mr Waugh brings extensive knowledge of our water infrastructure, having worked with Waimate District Council for the past 17 years in a continuous advisory capacity. This long-standing involvement means he has a detailed, practical understanding of local networks, investment history, and service challenges.

“A key criterion for Council was finding an independent chair who not only understands asset management and engineering best practice but also has real world experience with rural water schemes and small to medium council infrastructure,” said Mayor Rowley.

“Ross’s background includes hands on experience with rural water supplies and long service in district council environments. That combination was very important to us.”

Mr Waugh began his local government career at Timaru District Council, where his responsibilities included rural water supplies, before going on to work at senior levels across the sector. He holds a Master of Engineering (Civil) and formal qualifications in infrastructure asset management and currently serves as a Professional Teaching Fellow at the University of Auckland’s Faculty of Engineering.

He has also contributed to major national water and infrastructure initiatives, including work for the former National Transition Unit (Three Waters), Taumata Arowai, and post event water service capability reviews, as well as international assignments with organisations such as the World Bank and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Mr Waugh’s appointment strengthens the Water Services Committee’s ability to provide independent oversight, ensure sound decision making, and support the long-term sustainability of water services for urban and rural communities alike.

“Ross brings not only technical excellence, but also a strong understanding of governance, risk, and long-term financial planning,” said Mayor Rowley.

“We value his practical, outcomes focused approach and his deep appreciation of how water services underpin community wellbeing.”

The inaugural meeting of the Water Services Committee is expected to be held in April.