Workstreams and model design principles

The regional working group has established a programme to analyse options and prepare a Head Start Proposal for submission to Government in August. This includes building a case for change, setting guiding principles and assessing alternative possibilities.  

Financial modelling is underway to compare sustainability options, including impacts on debt, borrowing ability, rates and potential efficiencies. Additionally, there is analysis of previous local government reform proposals in Wellington, Auckland and comparable regions overseas, to identify what worked well and what didn’t. 

The group is also looking at factors that shape and influence communities of interest across our region, such as economic links, geography, transport patterns, infrastructure networks, as well as social and cultural identity. This will help shape the boundaries of proposed local government structures to support local representation.  

This work will inform possible approaches for local government in the region, including representation, decision-making, service delivery and funding. These alternatives will be assessed, and a preferred option identified by the Mayoral Forum, for formal consideration by the individual councils. This will determine what proposal is submitted to Government.   

The Mayoral Forum has agreed that any proposal should strengthen a unified regional voice while delivering for growth, the environment and all communities. It will support shared regional priorities, enable effective partnerships, ensure local representation, and involve mana whenua in decision making consistent with Treaty partnership. The proposal will also position the region as a place of opportunity, creativity and innovation, while supporting financial sustainability and resilience. 

An assessment framework has been developed to guide the evaluation of governance models for the next phase. This framework brings together previously agreed regional principles, model design principles and principles and ways of working. 

The model design principles are:  

1. Regional where it adds value, local where it matters most.  
2. Democratic legitimacy and local voice.  
3. Affordable and financially sustainable over time.  
4. Active partnership with mana whenua.  
5. Capability to deliver including people, systems and knowledge