The Government is currently consulting on its Simplifying Local Government proposal, announced on 25 November 2025. The proposal would change how regional councils are governed, including replacing elected regional councillors with new Combined Territories Boards made up of mayors and developing regional reorganisation plans for each region. Legislation is expected to be introduced from mid-2026, with changes progressing in stages through the later 2020s.
Consultation details
| Closing/Due date | 20 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Organisation/agency/group | Department of Internal Affairs |
| Website | https://www.dia.govt.nz/simplifying-local-government |
| Additional information |