"There's still so much to consider and we need to think about what's best for our communities," said Mayor Ash Tanner on the Government's recent water reform proposal. 

Councils across the country recently received the proposal for four new water entities across New Zealand. 

But Mayor Ash isn't willing to say whether Matamata-Piako will opt in or out at this stage and isn't convinced the water reform is the best option.

 "So far I am not impressed with the figures and I think we, as a Council, need to sit down and have a good hard look at the proposal as a whole, what it ultimately means for our community. Water is part of our core business and to hand over this valuable asset is a major decision.

"I spent time pouring over papers written by experts acrosss the world and it shows a trend of New Zealand's water rating very highly. So, if we aren't doing too badly, why is a reform necessary. 

"I am not convinced yet - but I want to put it to the Council and other significant parties and see what they have to say - I would like to examine the bigger picture, not just fancy figures."