The High Court has shot down a bid by three councils seeking to have their property rights declared by a court over the Three Waters reform.
The Timaru, Waimakariri and Whangārei councils wanted the court to state their control of local infrastructure assets, and the need for compensation if that ownership is removed by legislation.
But in the judgment, Justice Mallon found such a declaration would infringe on the principle the court does not interfere with the legislative process.
The Local Government Minister, Kieran McAnulty, says Cyclone Gabrielle will delay his review of the Three Waters programme.
Timaru mayor Nigel Bowen spoke to Guyon Espiner.
