Mayor asks Far North residents to have their say on local government reform

Following the Government’s announcement about its plan (Head Start pathway) to change how councils work in New Zealand, you might be wondering what this means for people in the Far North.

Right now, Northland has four councils. In the Far North, we also have community boards that help make sure local people are heard.

The Government says councils have two choices before them:

• Head Start pathway: Work together to make a joint plan for Northland over the next three months and send it to the Government by 9 August 2026, or
• Back Stop: Do nothing and let the Government decide later what will happen.

Some Northland councils are already working together to figure out what this could look like, although no decisions have yet been made.

Unfortunately, we haven’t been given much time, so even though we can’t do full public consultation like we usually would, it’s still important that we hear from you.

So, what happens next?

Over the next few weeks, Far North District Council will work with other councils to come up with a plan.

At the same time, we want to hear what you think, which is why we’re asking you to participate in a brief survey where you can share your whakaaro/ideas. We’ve also developed a webpage where you can learn more about Government plans.

We know that having a strong local voice in the Far North is important to you - so please take a few minutes to fill out the survey and share your thoughts. Your voice matters!

Your views will help us understand more deeply what matters most to our communities, and will help us speak up for the Far North.

Thanks whānau and we will keep sharing updates as this mahi progresses.

Ngā manaakitanga,

Mayor Moko Tepania