The biggest change to local government since 1989 is on the horizon, and we want to hear what matters most to you.
As part of its Simplifying Local Government programme, central government is looking at how councils are organised across New Zealand. The aim is to reduce duplication, improve efficiency and create councils that are better placed to meet future challenges.
Through the Head Start pathway, councils can help shape what those changes could look like in our region. This is a voluntary process that allows councils to put forward an initial proposal to government ahead of any wider reform programme.
Importantly, no decisions have been made.
Several possible options are currently being explored, and these are evolving as discussions continue across the Waikato and with neighbouring councils.
This is your opportunity to tell us what matters most to you. What matters most to you about how council services are delivered in the future? How do you feel about councils joining together into a larger council? What opportunities do you see? What concerns you?
Your feedback will help inform council's thinking as we consider what type of proposal we might put forward to government – or whether we choose not to put forward a proposal at all.
Community feedback closes on 10 July 2026.
To learn more, view the options and share your thoughts, visit:
www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz/SLG
You can also find more information about the government's reform programme at:
www.dia.govt.nz/simplifying-local-government
We encourage everyone to take a look and have their say.
