Southlanders share views on future governance
Community feedback on the future of local government in Southland is now being considered by the Invercargill City Council, as the Local Government Commission announces the two governance options it will investigate further through its independent review.
Council’s engagement on the Head Start Local Government Reform received more than 90 survey responses from Invercargill and the wider Southland community, alongside more than 300 comments across its social media channels, providing a range of perspectives on the future of governance in Southland.
Council's community engagement complemented work already undertaken through the Local Government Commission's review, which was progressing adjacent to the Government's Head Start pathway.
The Commission had now identified two options for further investigation and financial modelling: a single Southland-wide unitary council supported by local boards or two unitary councils, one based around Invercargill and one covering Southland and Gore, each supported by local boards. It would start community engagement on the options later this month.
Council Group Manager Community Engagement and Corporate Services Trudie Hurst said the Council’s Head Start engagement showed Southlanders were passionate about the future of their communities.
“We knew people would have different views on what the future should look like, and that's exactly what we saw,” Hurst said.
“There wasn't one overwhelming answer, but there were some very clear themes about what matters most to our communities.
“Whether people supported one council, two councils, or another option altogether, we want to thank everyone who took the time to share their views. We all want the best outcome for Southland, and hearing directly from our communities will help Council make a more informed decision.”
Council will meet on 23 July to review the community feedback, hear from the Local Democracy Enhancement Working Party and decide whether to progress forward with an option for a Head Start proposal before the Government's August deadline. The working party includes members from all four Southland councils.
Southland District Council and Gore District Council had also been engaging with the community, with Gore’s engagement being extended until 27 July.
Over the coming months the Local Government Commission would undertake detailed financial modelling, engage with councils, Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku, key stakeholders and the wider community, before determining whether either option should progress.
The engagement sessions for the Local Government Commission options were scheduled to begin 27 July.
Hurst said the feedback reinforced that the conversation was about more than choosing between governance models.
“The survey wasn't about picking a winner. It was about understanding what people value and what they want Council to consider if we decide to develop a proposal. Those insights are incredibly valuable and will help shape our thinking.”
“The future of local government belongs to all Southlanders, so I'd encourage people to stay involved as the Local Government Commission begins its engagement. This is a once-in-a-generation conversation, and every perspective helps shape the future of our region.”
The Local Government Commission would continue its independent statutory review, while Council would consider the feedback it received alongside technical analysis and the Government's assessment criteria.
Further information on the Local Government Commission engagement can be found here. The Invercargill City Council local government reorganisation webpage can be found here.
