The region’s five councils have entered into a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) this week, formalising a coordinated approach to exploring the Government’s Head Start pathway.

The Head Start pathway was announced by Government last month as part of its wider Simplifying Local Government reforms.

The agreement establishes how councils will work together to assess options and potential implications, share information and ultimately inform each council’s decision on whether submitting an outline proposal is the right move for Hawke’s Bay.

As part of that work, Hawke’s Bay’s district and city councils are seeking early community views to help inform upcoming workshops and discussions on potential options.

Napier Mayor Richard McGrath says the agreement was about participation in a process, not agreement to any particular outcome.

“No decisions have been made about future structures or governance arrangements. Understanding what matters most to our communities will be an important part of the next phase of our work together.

“What this does is create a framework for councils to work together and properly engage in the Government’s process before any future decisions are made.”

Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum says the Government had made it clear change was coming, and quickly.

"It is great to get this MOU signed. It means we can get on with the real work of looking at what options will work best for our communities across the region.

"At the same time, we need our communities' voices to help shape the options we consider. The decisions arising from this process are significant, and people need to be part of the discussion as we move through it, not just respond to a proposal at the end."

Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor Will Foley says this is one of the most substantial local government conversations councils have faced in decades and it is important we get this right.

“Working together gives councils the opportunity to show leadership, better understand the issues and make informed decisions about what is in the best interests of Hawke’s Bay, rather than risk having our destiny determined for us later through the Backstop process.

“The intensive work programme over the next several weeks will involve testing information, assessing options and understanding what different approaches could mean for communities, local services and the wider region.

“The work will need to consider a range of factors, including local voice, service delivery, affordability, planning implications and long-term regional outcomes.”

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little reiterated signing the Memorandum of Understanding is not an endorsement of any particular reform outcome.

“We want to hear what our communities think of the Government’s approach and what they believe councils should keep front of mind as we consider our next steps.

“Local identity and decision-making will remain a priority and central to any future conversations on this matter.”

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Chair Sophie Siers acknowledged the leadership of the region’s mayors in guiding Hawke’s Bay into the Government’s Head Start process.

“Our mayors have played a key role in bringing the region to this point, working together to position Hawke’s Bay well for what comes next.

“As this work progresses, the Regional Council’s role is to support that leadership and contribute a regional perspective – particularly around environmental management, long-term planning and infrastructure.”

Outline proposals under the Head Start pathway are due by 9 August 2026 and the Government has indicated that detailed financial analysis and community consultation would form part of the next stage of developing a formal proposal should an outline proposal be successful.

Councils expect significant work to occur over the coming weeks as they assess options, consider community views and determine whether submitting an outline proposal under the Head Start pathway is the right move for Hawke’s Bay. Councils will continue providing information and updates as regional work develops.

8 June 2026

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