Council has appointed Ross Waugh as the new Independent Chair of our in-house Water Services Committee (WSC), 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’s calibre to this role. His 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.
Mr Waugh brings extensive knowledge of our district’s water infrastructure, having worked with Council for the past 17 years in a continuous advisory capacity.
This enables him to have a detailed, practical understanding of local networks, investment history, and service challenges.
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 contributed to major national water and infrastructure initiatives, including work for the former National Transition Unit (Three Waters) and Taumata Arowai as well as international assignments with the World Bank and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Mr Waugh’s appointment strengthens the WSC’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.
The inaugural meeting of the Committee is expected to be held in April.
