Kāpiti backs locally focused alternative for Wellington regional reform

Kāpiti Coast District Council has today unanimously agreed to request the current Wellington Region Head Start Pathway proposal be amended to include a sub-regional unitary model. 

Mayor Janet Holborow says Council received a strong mandate through its community survey to protect local voice and the Kāpiti Coast District’s identity, which is hard to ignore. 

“While we acknowledge the work of the Wellington Regional Working Group and have been an active observer throughout the process, we believe the best approach is one that is “regional where it adds value, local where it matters most”, says Mayor Holborow. 

“The alternative model Council would like to see included in the Wellington region’s Head Start Pathway proposal offers a practical middle ground. 

“It would improve collaboration on big regional challenges while ensuring communities continue to have a strong say in the decisions that affect them." 

The Council's preferred approach would bring councils together in a simpler structure, improving coordination on issues such as infrastructure, housing and transport, while retaining local representation and accountability. 

Mayor Holborow says the proposal recognises that Kāpiti, Wairarapa and the Wellington metropolitan area each have different needs and priorities. 

"Local communities are best served when their voices remain visible and influential, while regional issues are planned and managed together." 

Councillor Liz Koh acknowledged the challenge councils find themselves in and said there is no clear evidence that the claimed benefits of economies of scale would result from a much larger organisation.  

“Local government is complex and any reform needs to carefully balance efficiency with local representation – Council's preferred approach deserves serious consideration,” says Cr Koh.  

Council has formally requested a sub-regional unitary model be included in the Head Start Pathway proposal for the Wellington region. Mayors across the region will meet on Friday 7 August to finalise the region’s Head Start proposal which needs to be submitted to the Government by 9 August. 

“We accept timeframes make this challenging, but we believe there’s a better way to achieve the Government’s objectives of improving long-term sustainability and resilience while protecting local democracy, affordability and relationships with mana whenua,” says Mayor Holborow. 

“For Kāpiti, this is about getting the balance right. We can build a stronger, more resilient local government system for the future without losing the local connections our communities value.”