We are pleased the government has chosen to not rush their proposed reform decision – especially given its importance.

Now we wait to hear the new timeline but the message from our communities remains clear. People in Hurunui and Waimakariri supported a North Canterbury-focused future, with decisions kept local.

We remain committed to advocating for our community as the Government develops its reform programme and working in partnership with our neighbours and government to seek the best outcome for our communities.

I was proud of how our communities responded and met the unrealistic timeframes we were working with to give us a very clear message of what was important to them.

Today’s announcement to pause provides some relief that the government is taking the time to make such an important decision that affects our communities.

We are in the midst of a sea of legislative change from Government – rates capping, new spatial planning legislation that replaces the RMA, and emergency management. We still need to fully understand what these changes will mean for our ratepayers and budgets.

While we wait to hear about the next steps on how Head Start may move forward, we will keep advocating for the outcomes our communities asked for.

We are always willing to partner with Government to see the best result for our community.

There is still significant work ahead before any future reforms are implemented, and we will continue to keep our communities informed as more information becomes available.

Our effort is now going to be focused on implementing the outcomes of RMA reform and developing the new regional spatial plan for Canterbury. We look forward to working alongside our Canterbury colleagues to deliver this new plan.

Today we welcome this announcement and welcome the pause, so any future reform is properly considered.