local government reform
Keeping a strong local voice in decision making
“Whatever shape council takes, the test is the same – does it serve our communities better than what we have today? You are the people best placed to tell us what that looks like” (Mayor Aksel Bech)
Having your say
Waikato District Council wants to hear from you
The Government is changing how councils are organised across New Zealand.
Waikato District Council want to hear from as many people as possible about what this might mean for the Waikato district.
Right now, most parts of the country have two councils — a regional council (which looks after things like environmental management, public transport planning and flood protection) and a district or city council (which looks after roads, water, rubbish, libraries, parks and consents). The Government’s Simplifying Local Government programme aims to reduce duplication and cost, for example by combining the two into a single “unitary” council that does both jobs.
The Head Start pathway is a voluntary, faster option that lets councils that are ready put forward a proposal to government. Reform of local government is happening — these conversations are about helping shape what it looks like for our district, and that’s what WDC needs your views on.
For more information and to share your thoughts click here
Feedback closes 10 July 2026
community forum
Challenges & Opportunities
Raglan Naturally Community Trust, in partnership with Raglan Community Radio, held a community forum on Sunday 28th June.
Waikato District Mayor Aksel Bech and former Auckland Deputy Mayor and community activist, Penny Hulse outlined for the community both the challenges and opportunities presented by the biggest shake-up of local government in decades.
Followed by a Q&A, community members were able ask their questions and share their thoughts.
The forum was filmed by Raglan Community Media and is available for you to watch below.
Don’t forget to have your say by July 10th.
