Why are we here? - from the Local Government Reform meeting, Otematata, Monday, June 22, 2026 The government intends to remove regional councils and combine councils to create unitary authorities nationwide by 2028. Councils must submit amalgamation proposals by August 9 under a “Head Start Pathway.” Those who do not submit will enter a “Backstop process,” where Wellington decides their structure. Waitaki’s situation is complex because it spans two regional councils (Canterbury and Otago). Options the council is considering ... >>> continue reading <<<
Photo - We have been here before: in June 1861 the boundary between Otago and Canterbury was marked with a 'spadeline' the remnants of which can be found near Lake Ōhāu