The Government is progressing changes to local government across New Zealand. The goal is to be more efficient and avoid duplication across neighbouring councils. Under the Government’s Simplifying Local Government reform programme, councils may be combined into larger unitary authorities.
A unitary authority is a single council that does the work of local and regional councils. This means one organisation looks after everything from regional responsibilities like environmental management, public transport, and flood protection through to local services like roads, rubbish collection, and community facilities.
What’s proposed?
The Government has invited councils across New Zealand to explore potential local government amalgamation through a fast-tracked ‘Head Start’ process.
The process gives council until 9 August 2026 to work together to explore options, test ideas and put forward regional proposals that reflect the needs of local communities.
Read more about the Head Start process
Read the Government's news release
What happens next?
Councils in the Wellington Region have established regional joint working group to explore future local governance options including amalgamation. The group, chaired by Greater Wellington, will put forward a reform proposal to the Local Government Commission.
Community views are being collected through both local council engagement activities and a cross-council community reference group. Feedback will help councils understand community perspectives as options are developed and assessed.
Local engagement opportunities
Learn more about your city and district council perspective, including how to get involved in consultations and stay updated on progress and outcomes.
Get in touch
- Phone:
- 0800 496 734
- Email:
- info@gw.govt.nz