Northland councils acknowledge decision to defer amalgamation proposals

This is a joint media release from the four Northland councils.

Northland councils have acknowledged the Government’s announcement yesterday to defer decisions on council amalgamation proposals, including their joint Northland Head Start Outline Proposal submitted in August.

The Minister of Local Government, Simon Watts, on Thursday announced that the Government will take additional time before deciding which Head Start local government reform proposals should progress. In a statement, the minister said that after considering the 18 proposals submitted, it was decided that more work would be required before Cabinet can make final decisions in early-2027.

Whangārei Mayor and Northland Local Government Reform Elected Member Steering Group Chair, Ken Couper saidhe understands why the Government is taking the time to ensure a long-lasting solution for Northland.

“Local government reform of this level is complex, and we welcome the government’s efforts to ensure we reach a sustainable solution that is embedded with strong regional collaboration.

“We continue to see the reform as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve local government arrangements for Northlanders and we remain committed to building a solution that is durable and delivers real benefits for Northlanders. We look forward to receiving clear direction from the Government post the election,” he said.

Kaipara District Council Mayor Jonathan Larsen said the pause would allow more time to consider the implications of reform and make sure communities like Kaipara have a meaningful voice in shaping any future changes.

“Local government reform is too important to rush. We welcome the Government acknowledging that more work is required and taking more time before making any decisions.”

Northland Regional Council Chair Pita Tipene said the work undertaken by councils to date has helped clarify the challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed as major reforms are advanced.

"Our collective efforts to date have not been in vain and have provided valuable insights into what is needed to create structures that best serve our communities into the future. Moreover, the critical work our regional council does for our communities and environment makes it imperative that we get it right – first time.

“We look forward to continuing to work with our local government partners, central government and the communities of Northland to ensure any future model delivers enduring benefits for Taitokerau.”

Far North District Mayor Moko Tepania said he is proud of the collaboration shown by Northland councils despite an incredibly tight timeframe to deliver the proposal.

“While we do not have the clarity we may have hoped for, I’m grateful that council staff can now focus on completing other major workstreams, such as our Long Term Plan and transitioning staff and assets to Northland’s new waters CCO. As always, we'll get on with the mahi and ensure our communities remain part of the conversation.”

You can learn more about Government plans to amalgamate councils and the Northland Head Start proposal here.