73% of feedback supports a unitary council for the Coast

West Coast communities are continuing to engage strongly in the Head Start local government reform process, with more than 69 people already taking the opportunity to share their views.

Three community drop-in sessions have been held to date, attracting more than 65 participants from across the region. The sessions have provided an opportunity for residents to learn more about the Government's local government reform programme, ask questions, and share what matters most to them about local government on the Coast.

In addition to the drop-in sessions, over 69 pieces of feedback have already been received through the online engagement hub, including 17 responses from Buller, 14 from Grey, 14 from Westland, and 24 as West Coast.

West Coast Local Government Reform Project Lead Ashley Stuart said the level of engagement so far demonstrates that Coast residents care deeply about the future of their communities.

"We've been encouraged by the number of people who have taken the time to attend the drop-in sessions, ask questions, and share their thoughts. We appreciate the community's willingness to engage with the process so far. This is the beginning of the conversation, and the feedback we receive will help shape what is ultimately put forward to Government. We encourage all West Coasters to make a submission and have their say before feedback closes. "

"We want to hear what people value about local government on the Coast, what services and local representation are important to them, and what they want to see protected, improved, or strengthened in the future."

Four further community drop-in sessions are still to be held in Westport, Reefton, Franz Josef and Haast, providing additional opportunities for residents to take part in the conversation.

The engagement process is focused on gathering community values, priorities and aspirations. No decisions have been made, and no preferred option has been identified at this stage.

Feedback through the online engagement hub closes on 6 July 2026, allowing time for the project working group to analyse the information received and prepare a draft proposal for consideration ahead of the Government's 9 August 2026 submission deadline.

"Every piece of feedback helps build a better understanding of what our communities want from local government in the future," Ms Stuart said.

"If you haven't had your say yet, we encourage you to get involved. This is an opportunity for West Coast communities to help shape a locally led response to a significant national reform process."

Community members can provide feedback and find information about upcoming drop-in sessions at:
https://haveyoursay.westcoastcouncils.co.nz/engage

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For further information please contact:
Ashley Stuart, Project Lead  ashley.stuart@westcoast.govt.nz 

Disclaimer
The information in this media release was correct at time of publication. Changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.