Have your say on the future of local government in Southland

Southlanders are being encouraged to take part in an important conversation about the future of local government in the region. The Local Government Commission is seeking feedback on whether changes are needed in Southland’s council structure.

The Commission is reviewing local government arrangements across Southland and wants to hear directly from communities about what is working well, what could be improved, and what matters most for the future of local democracy and service delivery.

Environment Southland Chair Jeremy McPhail: “This review is really important for setting up Southland for the future. It’s a golden opportunity to get an outcome that is best for Southland and all our councils, rather than relying only on the Government’s one-size-fits-all approach.”

Gore District Council Mayor Ben Bell: "Gore District Council encourages every resident to take part in this consultation. This is a genuine opportunity for our community to have a say in how they are governed, and we want to make sure our voice is heard. Local representation matters, and whatever the future holds, it should reflect what our community actually wants and needs."

Southland District Mayor Rob Scott believes local government in Southland is due for a reset.

“This is a generational change to ensure that our local government can represent our people in the best possible way. The outcome needs to adequately serve the people of Southland and not trade off economy of scale for the autonomy and local identity of our many unique communities that have their own needs and points of difference.”

Invercargill Mayor Tom Campbell said the review did not have a predetermined or preferred option for the structure of councils within the region – which meant it was critical that the community shared its feedback on what it believed would work best.

“The review will inevitably generate plenty of discussion within the community, and it is vital Southlanders are part of the conversation. The feedback they provide will help the Commission better understand our local priorities, and will play a role in influencing the decisions it makes for our collective future.”

How to get involved

There are several ways people can share their views:

• Complete the online survey: Southlanders can have their say by completing the Commission’s survey.
• Attend a public meeting or hui: The Commission is holding online and in‑person sessions across the region, giving people the opportunity to discuss issues and opportunities directly.
• Stay informed: The Commission will publish its findings after April, including whether reorganisation is considered the right approach for Southland.

Go to www.lgc.govt.nz to complete the survey and find dates for online and in-person meetings.

All feedback will help build a clearer picture of community priorities and how local government can best support Southland now and into the future.

Your voice matters. This is an opportunity for Southlanders to help shape the future of local government in the region.