Three district councils are determined not to give up the fight over Three Waters.

As new three water legislation is introduced to Parliament - Timaru, Waimakariri and Whangarei district councils are off to the High Court.

They say this is bigger than three waters and they'll be asking the court for a declaration on the rights and interests that property ownership entails.

Timaru mayor Nigel Bowen told Mike Hosking the action is being taken on legal advice.

He says they believe they have a good chance, and it should be a fundamental concern for ratepayers across the country as the Government looks to redefine ownership as we know it.

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