The government has launched a Head Start programme for local government reorganisation. Under the programme two or more territorial and/or unitary authorities can submit an outline proposal to establish a new unitary authority covering part or all of a region. Proposals need to be submitted by 9 August 2026. Councils that do not make a proposal will be included in a mandatory “backstop” process after the 2028 local government elections. You can read more about the process here.
Wellbeing Waikato fully support the need for change, so local government is more responsive, strategic and its services are more (truly) affordable. We have submitted to all councils with our thoughts on this issue- see here, and we have also shared our ideas via the Waikato Times here and local newspapers here.
The evidence of the problem is clear- unaffordable housing, food and power rates increasing far faster than either inflation or wages, patchy coordination and service delivery. The greatest evidence is the low turnout of voters in local elections- a sign that for too many, the names on the ballot might change, but the pattern stays the same.
However, focusing on lines on a map risks getting the answer wrong. While structure is an obvious element of performance, for many councils, structure is not the root cause, nor it is likely to address the known issues. Leadership, capability, incentives, and culture matter far more.
Also, in many of these areas, local government has one hand tied behind its back- because of the legislative and funding rules of central government. If reorganisation is fully tied to things like RMA reform (which is the clearest reason so far given), funding and financing reform, true localism and devolution, then reorganisation could indeed pay big dividends to communities.
Councils have until 9 August to respond to the government.
