Community Meetings to discuss Simplifying Local Government Reform

Published on 11 June 2026

Panel discussion and Q&A sessions to unpack proposed amalgamation of Councils.

The future of local government is being shaped right now — and this is our chance to help decide what it looks like for Waitaki.

As the Government’s Simplifying Local Government reforms get underway, we have a rare opportunity to shape representation in a way that is sustainable, affordable, and fit for future generations. But to make sure Waitaki’s voice is strong and well-informed, we need to hear from you. Your views will help ensure every perspective is considered as we prepare our submission.

Waitaki District Council will hold four community meetings to discuss the Government’s proposed Simplifying Local Government reforms.

These will begin with a panel discussion with the Mayor, the Chief Executive, and community representatives; Otto Dogterom, Justin Tipa and Ian Hurst, followed by a Q and A.

The meetings will take place on;

• Monday 22 June 2026 – Otematata Community Hall – 6.30pm

• Thursday 25 June 2026 – Palmerston Sports Centre – 6.30pm

• Monday 29 June 2026 – Union Rugby Club, Ngapara – 6.30pm

• Wednesday 1 July 2026 – Oamaru Opera House Auditorium – 6.30pm

In early May, the Government announced two pathways Councils can take towards amalgamating into unitary authorities. The new unitary authorities will have all the existing powers of District and City Councils, and powers currently held by Regional Councils.

The Head Start Pathway proposals are for two or more Councils to submit an outline plan for amalgamation by 9 August 2026. These do not need to be detailed, but the Government has set out certain requirements. Head Start proposals are intended to lead to amalgamation of Councils by the 2028 Local Government Elections.

Councils who do not enter the Head Start Pathway will be part of a Backstop process. This is not clearly defined, and the Government has indicated they will introduce legislation in 2027 – and that amalgamation would not take place until 2031 at the earliest.

However, it has been made clear that amalgamation is the future for local Government, and that all Councils – excluding Auckland – will be expected to amalgamate with its neighbours.

The Mayor has been in discussions with the Otago Mayoral Forum, the Canterbury Mayoral Forum and her colleagues in South Canterbury to consider the opportunities and potential options – but no decisions have been made. Council has been running a survey which closes on June 14, which can be found at this link: Let's Talk about Local Government reform | Let's Talk Waitaki

A new site, Let’s Talk about Future Waitaki, will launch later this week at Council’s Let’s Talk platform.

ENDS

media@waitaki.govt.nz