Let's Talk about Local Government reform

In November 2025, the Government released a draft proposal for local government reform. On 5 May 2026, the Government followed this with an announcement on its intended policy. Two reform pathways were set out, including the ‘Head Start’ for which outline proposals are due by 9 August and the ‘Backstop’ pathway, which will be legislated in 2027 but does not have clear detail yet.

Our Council is embarking on conversations with other Councils now to explore what the options may look like for us. It’s important that our communities have a voice in these discussions too, and people are given the opportunity to have their say on reforming local government. We're asking you for your thoughts and what is important to you in this reform process.

0% answered

Which Waitaki district ward do you live in?

* required

Ahuriri Ward

Corriedale Ward

Oamaru Ward

Waihemo Ward

I am a ratepayer, but live outside the Waitaki district

I don't know

How do you feel about how local government reform might affect you and your community?

* required

Maximum 500 characters

0/500

What is most important to you for local government reform?

* required

Keep decisions local

Services are easy to access

Healthy environment

Quality services and infrastructure

Urban growth is properly planned

Economic growth

More efficiency, less duplication

Affordable rates

More transparency

Rural areas and small towns are valued

Local character is protected

Other (please specify)

You can select up to 5 issues/topics.

Is there any other feedback you want to give about local government reform?

* required

Maximum 500 characters

0/500

What Councils could be grouped together?

Here in Waitaki, we sit across two regions - Otago and Canterbury - making us somewhat unique. Therefore, we have Councils from both regions we need to talk about future options with.

Amalgamation could take many forms. It could be with all or some of the Councils in the Otago region. It could be with all or some of the Councils of South Canterbury. It could be a mix of both. It could even be part of Waitaki amalgamating south and part amalgamating north.

What are your thoughts on the future of Waitaki?

Part of all or some of the Otago Councils

Part of all or some of the South Canterbury Councils

A mix of south and north Councils

Something else