Wellington Water Board Chair steps down

The below statement can be attributed to Nick Leggett, Wellington Water Board Chair:

"The failure at Moa Point is deeply serious. It has had environmental, public health and community impacts that none of us should take lightly.

While the operational causes of this event will be independently examined by a government review, leadership carries responsibility.

Crises like these undermine public trust in institutions, and we won't begin restoring that trust until leaders accept responsibility, in actions as well as words.

As Chair of Wellington Water, I believe therefore it is appropriate that I step aside.

There is a great deal of commentary and blame circulating. My decision is intended to remove distraction and allow the focus to remain squarely on remediation, transparency, and learning. Wellingtonians deserve clarity as the Mayor and council, and other responsible organisations, navigate this difficult period ahead.

An independent review run by the Government will seek to examine the root causes that led to the failure at Moa Point. I will contribute to that as required and look forward to the results so we can all understand how this occurred.

Strong organisations improve when those in leadership roles are prepared to stand up in difficult moments. That is what I am doing.

My last day in the role will be tomorrow (Monday 16 February). Wellington Water’s Deputy Board Chair, Bill Bayfield will act as interim Chair until the Board confirms a new one."