Simplifying Local Government is the Government progressing reform of local government focussed on improving the effectiveness, affordability and long-term sustainability of councils and local services across New Zealand.

Central Hawke's Bay, Hastings and Napier have submitted a high-level proposal to the Minister of Local Government for a new council that represents the three Hawke's Bay districts.

If the Government accepts this proposal, then the next stage of work will begin, which we will need to come back to you for further consultation on.

The proposal is a high-level outline for what Hawke's Bay's local government looks like in the future: a unitary authority for the region.

A unitary authority would combine the functions of Hastings District Council, Napier City Council, and Central Hawke's Bay District Council with Hawke's Bay Regional Council.

Currently, the city and district councils manage local roads, water, libraries, parks and rubbish collection.

Currently, the regional council manages environmental management, and public transport.

Central Hawke's Bay District Council, alongside the other Hawke's Bay councils, is considering the Government’s announcement and what it may mean for our community.

This includes understanding:

• the Government’s proposed process and timeframes

• what participation in the voluntary Head Start pathway may involve

• possible options for governance, representation and service delivery

• what future community engagement or decision-making processes may be required.

Two themes have emerged as important in Council's thinking so far:

1. We are interested in lowering the cost of delivering services.
2. Any future options need to retain Central Hawke's Bay's identity and provide for effective local decision making on issues important to the local community.