The Government has made it clear that legislation will be passed so regional councils won’t exist after 2028, and it also wants to reduce the number of city and district councils nationwide.

In May they announced a new ‘Head Start pathway’ as part of Simplifying Local Government reforms, giving councils the option of putting forward proposals for reorganisation, or risk having structure decisions made for them.

The framework strongly encourages Councils to consider merging – and has a stated preference for multi-council unitary authorities (a combination of regional and city/district functions).

Mayor Dan Gordon said it was important the community is involved in the conversation, given changes could affect how local services are delivered, how decisions are made, and how residents are represented in the future.

“This isn’t something that we have chosen, but it is something we have to work through and the best way to do that is to be open and transparent in our thinking and make sure we ask what our residents think as well.

“As we see it there are three possible options available to us, and we want to seek community input before we make our submission.”

As part of the consultation process, Council will be asking ratepayers  which option they believe would best support Waimakariri’s future.

Deputy Mayor Philip Redmond said Council’s focus remained on ensuring Waimakariri had a strong voice in any future arrangements.

“As a Council our focus is making sure the unique identity, services and needs of Waimakariri communities are protected, while ensuring our district has a strong voice in whatever the future may look like.”

Council is seeking feedback on three possible options before finalising a submission:

Option A: Waimakariri as a Unitary Council
Under this option, Waimakariri would become a standalone unitary council, taking on both district and regional council responsibilities without merging with neighbouring districts.

This is not currently an option under the proposed framework. Support for this option could leave the district subject to a future backstop process where structural changes are imposed without local input.

Option B: A North Canterbury Unitary Council
Waimakariri would join with either or both Hurunui and Kaikōura districts to form a single North Canterbury council responsible for both district and regional functions.

Option C: A Greater Christchurch Unitary Council
Waimakariri would join with Christchurch and Selwyn as part of a larger metropolitan council structure.

Council will be holding drop-ins / information sessions where you can ask questions about this reform.

• Rangiora 6pm–8pm, Wednesday, 24 June, Rangiora Council Chambers
• Kaiapoi 6pm–8pm Tuesday, 30 June, Ruataniwha Kaiapoi Civic Centre
• Oxford 6pm–8pm Wednesday, 1 July, Oxford Jaycee Hall.

Feedback can be provided online, at drop-in sessions, or via written submissions. You can learn more and have your say by visiting letstalk.waimakariri.govt.nz before 5 July.

Council will consider feedback in July before finalising its submission to Government in early August