11/02/2026
Who should make decisions about our rivers, native species, and climate preparedness?
The government is consulting on a significant change to local government and regional decisions that affect freshwater, biodiversity, climate air quality, and pest control.
Their proposal is to replace regional councillors with a board of mayors who take on responsibilities for the region’s environments on top of their existing responsibilities.
We’re concerned about replacing recently elected regional councillors with mayors who didn’t campaign to manage the natural environment. We’re also concerned that the proposal will:
Open the door to central government overriding local decisions
Dilute the focus on environmental issues
Disregard Te Tiriti and mana whenua involvement
We'd like you to join us by submitting on this once-in-a-generation change to local government. Please take a few minutes to submit and help ensure the environment has better protections and governance, rather than being at further risk of decline.
Local government reform could strengthen protections for nature – if it’s done right.
Get your submission in by 20 February 2026. Use our guide to have a say. Link in comments.
