Central Government wants to remove regional councillors and instead have all the mayors in a region work together as one team to make regional decisions. This proposal poses serious risks for future environment-focussed decision making.
We encourage all to make a submission on the Simplifying Local Government Proposal by 20 February.
ENM have updated our draft submission following a passionate discussion at our Coffee & Advocacy event. See draft here: Feel free to use anything that resonates with you in your own submissions.
In summary:
Environment Network Manawatū is submitting against the proposal as it risks weakening environmental protection, democratic accountability, local expertise, and community trust while offering uncertain efficiency gains.
We are urging the government to pause, clearly articulate the problem it is seeking to address, and engage meaningfully with communities, local government, iwi, and environmental practitioners to design reforms that strengthen rather than hollow out environmental stewardship and local democracy.
Read the full Draft ENM Submission here
To strengthen the submission, we are seeking examples/stories from community groups that have been supported in their environmental aspirations through Horizons.
If you have any stories, feedback, questions or want to add your logo in support of the submission, email Madz: manager@enm.org.nz by Monday 9 February 2026.
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