Local Democracy Reporting

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Local Democracy Reporting - Latest News [Page 1]

Ngāti Rangi Blasts Horizons Over Complaints Process After Young Iwi Leader Cleared Of Conflict Concerns

Monday, 28 September 2026, 5:31 pm | Moana Ellis - Local Democracy Reporter

Ngāti Rangi says Horizons Regional Council damaged both its relationship with the iwi and the reputation of one of its young leaders when it launched an investigation into councillor Elijah Pue. More >>

Iwi Want Early Say In South Taranaki Council Decisions

Monday, 28 September 2026, 5:26 pm | Craig Ashworth - Local Democracy Reporting

He Pou Tikanga helps the council meet Local Government Act requirements to provide ways for Māori to contribute to decision-making. More >>

Iwi Want Early Say In South Taranaki Council Decisions

Monday, 28 September 2026, 5:20 pm | Craig Ashworth - Local Democracy Reporting

He Pou Tikanga helps the council meet Local Government Act requirements to provide ways for Māori to contribute to decision-making. More >>

'Not Brave Enough': Rotorua Mayor Slams Government's 'Cruel' Reform Delay

Monday, 28 September 2026, 5:17 pm | Mathew Nash - Local Democracy Reporter

The government has put council merger plans on hold until after the election. More >>

'Bit Of A Betrayal': Southland Mayors Bemoan Amalgamation Delay

Monday, 28 September 2026, 5:10 pm | Matthew Rosenberg - Local Democracy Reporter

Campbell said there were contradictory elements in proposals around the country, including in Southland, but that was no surprise given the timeframe. More >>

Councils Faced 'Phenomenal Pressure' To Meet Merger Deadline, Only For Government To Ice Plans

Monday, 28 September 2026, 5:04 pm | Jordan Smith - Local Democracy Reporter

The delay follows the coastal council spending $181,378 on consultancy fees during the three month proposal window - accounting for nearly half of the cost out of six Waikato councils. More >>

Ashburton’s 10% Rates Cap ‘Well Above’ Government Target, Minister Says

Monday, 28 September 2026, 4:59 pm | Jonathan Leask - Local Democracy Reporter

Local Government Minister Simon Watts said the transition approach was not inconsistent with his expectations, with each council responsible for determining its own pathway. More >>

Should Dogs Be Allowed At Cemeteries? Topic Divides Ashburton Council

Monday, 28 September 2026, 4:55 pm | Jonathan Leask - Local Democracy Reporter

Cr Carolyn Cameron said cemeteries should be preserved as quiet places for mourning and reflection, while Cr Julie Moffett argued leashed dogs should be welcomed, citing 70% support in consultation. More >>

Canterbury Regional Council Chair Speaks Out On Proposal To Debt Fund Planning Work

Monday, 28 September 2026, 4:48 pm | David Hill - Local Democracy Reporter

The forum had proposed that the regional council take on the debt and then collect contributions from the 10 local councils. More >>

North Canterbury Mayors Welcome Merger Pause Amid 'Sea Of Change'

Monday, 28 September 2026, 4:42 pm | David Hill - Local Democracy Reporter

Two North Canterbury mayors have welcome a pause in local government reform, while Kaikōura District Council is wants some more certainty as it looks north. More >>

‘Time To Grow Up’: Rotorua Councillors Clash Over Reserve Transfers

Monday, 28 September 2026, 4:18 pm | Mathew Nash - Local Democracy Reporter

Tense reserve debate ends with one approval, one delay. More >>

Blenheim Parking Wardens To Soften Approach For Rest Of CBD Revamp

Monday, 28 September 2026, 4:14 pm | Kira Carrington - Local Democracy Reporter

The council was planning a big opening to “showcase council’s investment in strengthening town centre vibrancy and improving the experience for residents and visitors” when the full job was done. More >>

Manawatū-Whanganui Commits To ‘Room For The River’ Approach To Combat Flooding

Monday, 28 September 2026, 4:05 pm | Rebecca Hogan - Local Democracy Reporter

Jon Roygard, group manager of catchment operations, said the “room for the river” approach was a flood management strategy which focused on allowing natural river floodplains to move and shape. More >>

Public Shut Out Of Port Discussions At Southland Council

Monday, 28 September 2026, 4:01 pm | Matthew Rosenberg - Local Democracy Reporter

September 24, 2026 Environment Southland is staying silent on the outcome of two private meetings held over the last week to discuss South Port. The regional council is looking to reduce its 66% stake in the Bluff deepwater port, having previously ... More >>