Northland's four councils last week took another significant step in the region’s local government reorganisation.

More than 2,300 survey responses were received across all four Northland councils in May and June.

Kaipara District Council has unanimously adopted its Annual Plan for 2026/2027, confirming an average rates increase of 3.9% after growth.

A pōwhiri held at Otamatea marae has formally welcomed Kaipara District Council’s new chief executive, Jazz Singh.

Northland communities are being invited to have their say on a once in a generation change to local government, as surveys go live across all four councils.

Kaipara District Council has agreed to reduce the proposed rates increase for the upcoming year, easing pressure on households facing ongoing cost-of-living challenges.

Kaipara District Council will join the Local Government Reform Elected Member Steering Group, confirming its participation in a regional response to local government reforms. 

Council has agreed to join a Northland-wide Local Government Reform Elected Member Steering Group to help shape the future of local government in the region.

Council will explore further options to reduce the proposed 2026/2027 rates increase, after elected members unanimously voted in support of a notice of motion raised by Mayor Jonathan Larsen at today’s meeting.

District councillors from Far North, Whangārei and Kaipara have approved key governance and transfer agreements, marking a significant milestone as the Northland Waters establishment programme moves into its next phase.  

Kaipara District Council has reduced rates below its Long Term Plan budgets while continuing to prioritise dependable roading.

Northland’s councils are making strong progress toward establishing the region’s new water services council controlled organisation (CCO).