Horizons acknowledges central government proposal about regional councils

Horizons Regional Council acknowledges today’s announcement [25 November] from central government regarding the proposed restructure of regional council governance and function delivery. 

Horizons chair Nikki Riley says the announcement and consultation period present a chance to address long-term issues and create positive outcomes for communities.

“The calls for local government reform have been loud, consistent and come from many different parties – including from regional and unitary councils.  

“Today’s announcement provides an opportunity to progress real change and a time of significant reform and cost pressure.” 

Any change should be done in collaboration with regional and unitary councils, given their experience with regional-scale delivery of key services, says Cr Riley. 

“Regional and unitary councils have significant experience in delivering pest control, flood resilience, emergency management, biosecurity and more. There are multiple examples of this in the Horizons Region, including recent emergency management work in Ruapehu, support provided to catchment care collectives for data collection and pest trapping, and the recent suite of flood protection projects completed in Manawatū, Palmerston North, Rangitīkei, Horowhenua and Whanganui.

“Research* shows these activities provide the best economic outcomes when delivered at a regional scale. 

“Some of the best work we do is in partnership with our communities, outside of the complicated and cumbersome legislation we legally must enforce on behalf of central government. A prime example is the Sustainable Land Use Initiative, which provides all-of-catchment benefits for the economy and the environment through working with landowners.

“Much of the complexity in local government comes from the legislation we operate under. I applaud this government for recognising that and for trying to fix it through its resource management reform programme.

“Getting this fix right will create a strong future for regional service delivery and, if done well, create an environment where we can achieve even more with our communities through collaboration thanks to enabling legislation.

“We appreciate the length of time given for consultation on this proposal, running until 20 February 2026.”  

Horizons staff and councillors will continue working hard for those in the region throughout the consultation period and beyond, says Cr Riley. 

“We remain focused on achieving the best outcomes for everyone who lives, works and plays in the Horizons Region. This focus will not change, no matter what the future model for regional services delivery ends up being.”

*Independent research by economics and policy advisory firm Castalia, released last week by Te Uru Kahika, found that delivering certain critical public services at a regional scale is best for the country’s economy, environment, and safety. That research can be found here.