Hawke’s Bay Regional Council remains fully committed to delivering for the region following the Government’s announcement of proposed changes to the structure of regional councils.

Regional Council Chair Sophie Siers wants to reassure the community that the Council’s focus continues to be on core work that protects Te Matau a Māui’s environment, and builds resilience for the region.

“Our plans, policies and rules all remain operative throughout any transition the Government may progress. All existing Treaty obligations and Māori partnership arrangements continue unchanged,” she says.

The Government has outlined that it will take up to two years to develop the proposed regional reorganisation plan, that will map Council functions and propose a structure for delivering services.

“It will take some time before the exact nature of the future system for local government will be known. So, for now, it's business as usual.

“Our teams are out there every day monitoring our rivers and groundwater, managing flood protection assets, managing biosecurity threats, protecting unique areas of biodiversity, working with landowners to prevent productive soil from entering our waterways, and continuing the mahi to build the long-term resilience of the region. That doesn’t change.”

Chair Siers says the Council recognises that local government reform is a necessary and significant step, and an opportunity to address long-term issues.

“Government collaboration with the regional sector is essential to ensure reforms strengthen, rather than compromise, local decision-making and regional outcomes.”

Chair Siers noted independent research released last week by Te Uru Kahika, the collective of regional and unitary councils, reinforced the importance of regional-scale delivery.

“The Castalia report is clear that delivering certain critical public services at a regional scale is the most effective model for New Zealand’s economy, environment and safety,” says Chair Siers.

“We look forward to engaging constructively with Government on their proposal. Our priority will always be ensuring Hawke’s Bay gets the best possible outcomes from any future system.”

*Independent research by economics and policy advisory firm Castalia can be found here: https://govt.us7.list-manage.com/track/click?u=dbe5c7234bd5d8831ea2e146c&id=56c626b493&e=1b3605d793

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