Hawke's Bay Regional Council
Local democracy
Local government is a foundational part of our democracy. But local democracy isn’t just about holding elections every three years – it’s about the day-to-day ways people have their say in the decisions that affect us all.
Local democracy
Local government is a foundational part of our democracy. But local democracy isn’t just about holding elections every three years – it’s about the day-to-day ways people have their say in the decisions that affect us all.
Deepen engagement by using focus groups and citizens' assemblies to build shared solutions, not just tick-box consultations.
Right-size council by acting on the efficiency and effectiveness review, setting clear strategy, empowering decisions and linking council to community outcomes.
Work in partnership with Māori by recognising the value Māori bring and ensuring their voices are embedded in council decisions.
Engage communities early in council decisions to ensure local voices shape regional outcomes.
Ensure stringent oversight of council operations to cut waste, improve efficiency and deliver better value for ratepayers.
Improve transparency and trust by providing plain-language updates and open reporting on council performance.
Abolish Māori wards and promote voting based on capability not quota as Māori already participate in committees and consultation.
Disestablish all wards as they confuse voters and reduce participation because many do not know their ward.
Rethink amalgamation following Cyclone Gabrielle which clearly demonstrated regional disconnection.
Establish equal iwi voting seats on all standing committees to fulfil Te Tiriti obligations in water and climate decisions.
Fund 20 community decision pods, $100,000 each, to co-design hyperlocal solutions such as Maraenui flood defenses.
Launch HBRC Responds app for real-time issue reporting and live polls during meetings to end received and noted culture.
Deepen engagement by using focus groups and citizens' assemblies to build shared solutions, not just tick-box consultations.
Right-size council by acting on the efficiency and effectiveness review, setting clear strategy, empowering decisions and linking council to community outcomes.
Work in partnership with Māori by recognising the value Māori bring and ensuring their voices are embedded in council decisions.
Engage communities early in council decisions to ensure local voices shape regional outcomes.
Ensure stringent oversight of council operations to cut waste, improve efficiency and deliver better value for ratepayers.
Improve transparency and trust by providing plain-language updates and open reporting on council performance.
Abolish Māori wards and promote voting based on capability not quota as Māori already participate in committees and consultation.
Disestablish all wards as they confuse voters and reduce participation because many do not know their ward.
Rethink amalgamation following Cyclone Gabrielle which clearly demonstrated regional disconnection.
Establish equal iwi voting seats on all standing committees to fulfil Te Tiriti obligations in water and climate decisions.
Fund 20 community decision pods, $100,000 each, to co-design hyperlocal solutions such as Maraenui flood defenses.
Launch HBRC Responds app for real-time issue reporting and live polls during meetings to end received and noted culture.
Mayor
Compare the mayoral candidates in your area
Local council
Compare the candidates for your city or district council
Regional council
Compare the candidates for your regional council
Local board
Compare the candidates for your local or community board