254How this Part works

1. This section is a guide to the overall scheme and effect of this Part. It does not affect the interpretation or application of the other provisions of this Part.

2. Subpart 1 provides the Minister with a range of options in relation to a local authority or Watercare if they have a problem. The options are available only in relation to the local authority or Watercare itself, and not to any entity that the local authority or Watercare may control or have an interest in.

3. The options vary according to the nature and scale of assistance or intervention required to address the problem.

4. The options are not a hierarchy of actions that the Minister must employ sequentially in relation to a local authority or Watercare.

5. Accordingly, the Minister may exercise an option in relation to a local authority or Watercare without having previously exercised 1 or more of the other options.

6. Subpart 2 of this Part sets out general provisions applying to all the options the Minister may exercise under subpart 1.

7. The provisions in subpart 2 of this Part are largely procedural in nature and cover matters including notification of the assistance or intervention, reporting requirements, and payment and protection for the individuals carrying out the assistance or intervention.