Mayor's Message: A question of amalgamation

The publication of the Government’s Future for Local Government review last month has triggered fresh discussion on whether we should merge the Nelson and Tasman Councils.

The report proposes the biggest shakeup of Councils in more than 30 years. It suggests reducing the number of Councils across New Zealand from the current 78 to 15. This aligns with the new regional plans proposed under the overhaul of the Resource Management Act, meaning a single Nelson-Tasman Council.

I do not support the Government’s Three Waters policy (now rebranded as Affordable Water) but reform in how we manage water infrastructure will occur in some form. I am much more supportive of the Government reducing the number and complexity of resource management plans. These changes will have a huge effect on the Nelson and Tasman Councils and make further reform, such as a merger, inevitable. 

The main reason I favour change is that the Tasman and Nelson economies and communities are so integrated. We could do much better in areas such as transport, planning, economic development, climate change, arts, sports and tourism with a single Council. There are many areas where our Nelson and Tasman Councils do work together pragmatically such as Civil Defence, Saxton Field, waste and sewage management but it is cumbersome and inefficient.

I also dislike the way New Zealand is becoming increasingly divided between town and country when we are so dependent on each other. I love the combination of Tasman’s productive sectors and natural treasures with Nelson’s supporting infrastructure, science and creative sectors.

A current issue confronting both Councils requires we talk. Nelson’s Civic House is overdue for major refurbishment and Tasman, too, needs to make changes to its Richmond headquarters. We need a clear picture of the future of local government to invest wisely.

I was encouraged that Acting Tasman Mayor Stuart Bryant said amalgamation should be considered and that a merged Council could bring about efficiencies from less duplication. He also acknowledged there would be challenges and that it should only proceed with residents’ support. I share this view. 

This conversation should not be led from Wellington. Nor should the focus be on what would work best for elected members or Council staff. The real question is what is the right form of local government to serve the people of this region. I believe we would be better and stronger together.