NPDC approves budget and joint proposal on the future of local government in Taranaki

NPDC Councillors have today approved a joint proposal with Taranaki Regional Council to be submitted to the Government next week, outlining options for the future of local government in the region.

They also approved a Future for Local Government work programme and funding to deliver it through to March 2027.

Councils wanting to participate in the Government’s Head Start pathway have until 9 August to submit a proposal. However, last month the Council agreed to pursue an alternative, self-designed “Pathfinder” proposal and submit it through the process.

The Pathfinder proposal signals the two councils’ commitment to doing the work properly, taking communities and iwi partners on the journey, and ensuring any future proposal is built on robust evidence and understanding.

A key part of the plan over the next six months is meaningful, well-informed consultation with the community and iwi partners. It also includes collaboration with the Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Southland regions to take a fresh look at how current regional and district council services could be delivered more efficiently.

The Government still needs to decide whether to accept the Pathfinder proposal. However, the work programme will continue so the councils have the evidence, community feedback and iwi input needed to help shape any future local government model for Taranaki.

Total budget allocated to work programme from April 2026 to March 2027 is $1.3m, split equally between NPDC and TRC.

This includes up to $350,000 as NPDC’s direct cash contribution for the period from now to March 2027. The balance of costs is being met through existing staff time and resources and by reprioritising work.

A copy of the proposal is in the agenda on our website. Find out more on our Shaping Taranaki’s Future project page

Among other decisions from today’s council meeting:

Decision on New Plymouth CBD parking changes paused

A decision on proposed changes to parking in New Plymouth’s including extending free parking for SuperGold card holders to two hours per session a day, and updates to mobility parks, loading zones, motorhome parking and time-restricted spaces, was laid on the table. This means the decision will be made at a date yet to be confirmed.

Draft Resilience, Energy and Climate Action Plan approved for public consultation

This would be a new integrated climate and resilience plan that prioritises adaptation to climate risks, energy cost reduction, emissions management and targeted community support, while positioning Council to access climate-related loans. Feedback is due to open 15 August and close 15 September.

The Council also agreed to grant community leases for Tūparikino Hub and for the Going for Growth Committee to be given delegation to make decisions on community funding applications.

A copy of the agenda is available on our website. Minutes and a recording of the meeting will be available in the next few days.