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Head Start: What Matters Most to Whanganui?
We’re at the early stage of exploring what the future of local government could look like for us. The Government has given councils across New Zealand a three-month window (known as the Head Start pathway) to develop proposals on how local government could be reorganised. This may include considering how councils could work more closely together or join up to be more effective.
At this point, we’re not asking for feedback on options- that will come later. Right now, we want to understand what matters most to our community. Your feedback will help shape the values and principles that will guide any future options, ensuring they reflect what’s important to the people of Whanganui.
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1.
Which gender do you identify with?
(Required.)
Female
Male
Another gender (specify if you feel comfortable)
2.
What age bracket do you belong to?
Under 18
18-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
65+
3.
What is your ethnicity? (Tick any which apply)
Pākehā/ New Zealander/NZ European
Māori
Asian
Pacific Peoples
Māori / Pākehā
Middle Eastern
African
Latin America
Other (please specify)
4.
Do you support the Government’s move to amalgamate local government?
Yes
No
I don't know
5.
Please explain your answer.
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6.
Change is coming to how local government works. All of the following will be important—but we want to understand what matters most to you. Please select your top three.
(Required.)
Keeping decisions and representation close to local communities
Keeping rates affordable and costs shared fairly
Improving the quality, reliability, and sustainability of services and infrastructure
Access to specialist expertise and capability
Protecting Whanganui’s identity and character
Strengthening relationships with iwi and hapū
Preparing for future challenges (e.g. climate change and population change)
Councils provide local services like parks, libraries, and community facilities, as well as larger services like infrastructure and planning. Behind the scenes, there are also support functions like HR, finance, and governance.
7.
Thinking about the future, which services or functions should be managed locally in Whanganui?
8.
Thinking about the future, which services or functions do you think could be managed regionally?
9.
When local government changes in the future, what is the one thing you most want protected or strengthened for Whanganui?