Canterbury leaders gather to discuss future of local government
Canterbury leaders have come together to explore how local government reform could shape the region's future.
More than 100 elected members, chief executives and mana whenua representatives came together for the Canterbury Local Government Summit on Simplifying Local Government, hosted by Environment Canterbury and the Canterbury Mayoral Forum and held at Lincoln University.
What the summit explored
The summit focused on helping Canterbury leaders build a shared understanding of opportunities arising from the Government's proposed local government reforms, and the implications for regional service delivery, planning and environmental management.
Throughout the day, participants explored the regional services, environmental challenges, partnerships, and future choices that will shape Waitaha Canterbury over the coming decades. Mana whenua encouraged attendees to think intergenerationally and at a Ngāi Tahu takiwā or South Island scale.
Canterbury's shared approach
Canterbury Mayoral Forum Chair Nigel Bowen said there was agreement in principle among Canterbury councils to continue developing a proposal for the region, with further work taking place in the leadup to the 9 August due date for proposals.
“Ultimately, the decisions belong to elected members and the communities they represent. We’re making sure no district is left out of the conversation and that any proposal Canterbury submits to Government reflects the realities of both our urban and rural communities,” Mayor Bowen said.
A strong theme throughout the discussions was ensuring all parts of Canterbury are included in future conversations and that local communities continue to have a strong voice in decision-making for local and regional services. Participants also reflected that the timeframes provided by Government are creating significant challenges.
Understanding Environment Canterbury’s functions
Environment Canterbury councillors led discussions on the wide range of services currently delivered at a regional level, including freshwater management, biodiversity, biosecurity, science and environmental monitoring, public transport and catchment management.
These sessions highlighted the interconnected nature of many regional functions and the importance of understanding how they would continue to be delivered effectively under any future governance model.
Environment Canterbury Chair Dr Deon Swiggs said the day was focused on building knowledge and supporting informed decision-making.
"The key message from the day has been that while the shape of future local government remains uncertain, we have an opportunity to shape it. There is a clear desire from Canterbury leaders for us all to work together, build a common understanding of the issues, and ensure communities continue to receive the services they rely on throughout any transition or change.
“Justin Tipa, Kaiwhakahaere of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, and Papatipu Rūnanga representatives in the room challenged elected members to think about the visionary opportunities for future generations and to consider what we can do at a takiwā scale,” Chair Swiggs said.
Next steps
The Canterbury Mayoral Forum will meet again on 6 July to continue discussions and further develop a proposal for Canterbury's future local government arrangements. Councils across Canterbury are also continuing processes within their own districts.