Wairarapa is unique. Wairarapa’s future should be shaped by Wairarapa communities, with local voice and decision-making at its centre.
That is the key message in the Wairarapa Unitary Authority proposal submitted through the Government’s Head Start process, part of its Simplifying Local Government plans.
The proposal responds to central government's invitation to councils to identify governance arrangements that are financially sustainable, capable of meeting future planning and infrastructure demands, simpler to operate, more efficient and able to maintain meaningful local representation. Masterton and Carterton District Councils believe a Wairarapa Unitary Authority provides the best opportunity to achieve those outcomes for the region.
Recognising the strong connections that already exist across the region, the proposal includes all three Wairarapa districts, with communities sharing a common geography, economy, environment and sense of place.
Carterton District Council Mayor Steve Cretney said the submission reflects a desire to ensure Wairarapa remains at the centre of decisions about its future.
“With the upcoming transfer of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services to Waitī Waters, it is clear existing local government structures are no longer fit for the next generation.”
"This is about putting forward the strongest possible proposal for Wairarapa and ensuring our region has the opportunity to shape its own future."
Masterton District Council Mayor Bex Johnson said the proposal is about giving the region the best chance to be heard through the Head Start process.
"We believe a Wairarapa Unitary Authority provides the best opportunity to meet the objectives set by central government while keeping decision-making close to our communities and retaining the strong local representation people value."
“Wairarapa’s primary production, natural environment, network of rivers and diverse populations are spread from the Tararua Ranges to the Pacific coast. Making up almost 73% of the land area in the greater Wellington region, Wairarapa is unique. We believe a Wairarapa Unitary Authority is best placed to manage these unique challenges.”
At the heart of the proposal is a recognition that Wairarapa functions as a single region in many ways, despite existing council boundaries.
"Including all three districts recognises those connections we already have as a region and reflects our belief that Wairarapa's future is strongest when considered as a whole," she added.
The councils acknowledged South Wairarapa District Council's decision to support a Wellington-Wairarapa model and thanked elected members for their engagement throughout the process.
"We respect the decision reached by South Wairarapa District Council and acknowledge the thoughtful consideration that has gone into this discussion across all three councils," Mayor Cretney said.
Despite differing views on the preferred pathway, both councils said the focus remains on securing the best possible future for Wairarapa communities.
"It allows us to put forward a vision that reflects our region's unique identity, strengths and aspirations, while demonstrating how local government reform could work for Wairarapa," Mayor Johnson added.
The proposal will now be considered by Government alongside other Head Start submissions from around New Zealand.
