The West Coast Mayors, Chairs and Iwi Forum (MCIF) have written to Government Ministers outlining a proposal for the West Coast to proactively lead its own exploration of future local government arrangements.

The MCIF is seeking Government support to begin a structured, region-led process to assess governance options for the entire West Coast in response to the Government’s Simplifying Local Government proposal.

MCIF Co-Chair Mayor Lash says the goal is to ensure the Coast shapes its own future rather than having change imposed externally.

“This is about working together as a region to understand what options exist and what would best serve our communities over the long term. We’re not proposing a predetermined outcome, we’re proposing a structured, collaborative process.”

Forum members agree any reform work should be led locally, reflect the unique characteristics of the Coast, and be grounded in evidence and collaboration. The Forum’s proposed way seeks to ensure all viable options are carefully assessed before any decisions are made.

The Coast is entering a period of significant opportunity, with economic growth potential across energy, minerals, infrastructure resilience and tourism. Forum members say it is important governance arrangements are considered carefully to ensure the region is well positioned to support sustainable growth.

A central part of the proposed approach is meaningful community involvement. A detailed consultation plan would be developed alongside any draft options to ensure the views of Coast wide communities are heard, and reflected, before a final reorganisation plan is presented to Government.

The Forum also notes any reform work must be appropriately staged and resourced given the Coast’s limited population base and smaller geographically challenged districts.

Further discussion with Government will focus on how a region-led process could proceed and how it aligns with national reform timelines.

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