Council News

Amalgamation Discussion on the Table as Masterton Navigates Options

In light of community conversations, and in the interest of transparency, Mayor Johnson has confirmed that discussions around amalgamation and future structural options are continuing at a high level.

Council to consult on extension of Ōpaki Water Race closure

Masterton District Council has unanimously resolved to consult on an extended closure date for the Ōpaki Water Race by 12 months, to 30 June 2027 only.

Wairarapa moves from State of Emergency into a Local Transition Period

​From 5pm tonight, Wairarapa will move out of a State of Emergency and into a Local Transition Period (LTP) to support recovery planning.

Time running out to share views on Masterton's future

The deadline for submissions on Masterton District Council's Annual Plan for 2026/27 and Masterton’s plan for the future, Our Future Our Story, is just days away, closing on Tuesday, 28 April.

Wairarapa Tararua’s water entity officially launched today

The Wairarapa Tararua’s new water organisation establishment reached a major milestone with its launch, the announcement of its Board and company name, Waitī Waters, at an event in Masterton.

A fresh new look for Kids Own Playground – Public Feedback open

Masterton South Rotary Club, in partnership with Masterton District Council is inviting the community to share their vision for the next generation of play equipment at Kids Own Playground.

Cyclone Vaianu and Weather Notices, 12 April 2026

Additional Funding Approved for Queen Street Trees

The Masterton community has voiced its concerns, and Council has listened. At Wednesday’s Council meeting, elected members approved an additional $550,000 for landscaping improvements on Queen Street.

​Consultation begins on Masterton’s future

Consultation is now open on Masterton District Council's Annual Plan for the 2026/27 financial year and the development plan, Our Future Our Story, which considers Masterton’s vision towards 2050.

From Shelter Dog to Service Dog: Ginni’s Story

Ginni is currently training to become an epilepsy support dog for her human. Her journey, however, began at the Masterton District Council animal shelter.

Minister marks completion of $17 million Hood infrastructure project

The completion of upgrades and improvements at Hood Aerodrome future-proofing the facility has been marked by Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson.

One week left for street tree and alcohol submissions

There’s just one week left for the community to have its say on street trees and alcohol control in public spaces.

MDC and MTLT make Masterton’s history more accessible in large print

From the end of March, two new large print non-fiction titles will be available at Masterton District Library.

Tyler Ross appointed as Group Manager Infrastructure

Tyler Ross will join Masterton District Council’s Executive Leadership Team from 13 April as Group Manager Infrastructure, returning to the district from Wellington.

Consultations open on two hot topics

Masterton District Council is expecting a lot of community interest in two consultations opening today (25 February) about how public spaces are managed.

$200,000 Investment to Enhance Queen Street and Support Local Business

Masterton District Council has approved a $200,000 Town Centre Improvement Fund to support Queen Street shop and building owners enhance their premises.

Library secures funding to power sustainable and inclusive upgrades

Masterton District Library has secured $418,000 from the Lottery Community Facilities Fund Te Tahua Hapori Ngā Whakaurunga to enable further improvements without impacting rates.

Vandalism leads to temporary closure of bathrooms at Henley Lake

Recent bouts of vandalism have led to the closure of the men’s toilet cubicles at the toilets at Henley Lake.

Council disappointed by community response to regulatory process

Masterton District Council Chief Executive Kym Fell has expressed disappointment at some community reaction to the recent lifting of the Castlepoint Hotel's alcohol licence stay.

New Chief Executive appointed for Hood Aerodrome

Ian Osland has been appointed Chief Executive of Hood Aerodrome following a rigorous assessment and approval process with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).