Southland reorganisation investigation phase 1 decision
The Local Government Commission has decided to proceed to phase 2 of its investigation into the reorganisation of local government in Southland. The Commission’s decision and related documents are available here.
Moving to phase 2 of the investigation means the Commission will undertake more detailed, evidence-based work. This will include developing and refining possible local government structural options for modelling, including engaging with councils, Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku, key stakeholders and the wider Southland community.
The Government’s recently announced Head Start pathway sits outside of the current statutory reorganisation process under the Local Government Act and is being led separately by Ministers and their advisers. While the Commission is aware of this development and will continue to monitor it, it does not alter the Commission’s obligations under current legislation.