

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 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 public engagement by using modern tools and community events to ensure all voices are heard.
Strengthen partnership with mana whenua and community through genuine collaboration and shared decision-making.
Lead by example with transparent governance, fair wages, and a culture of openness across council operations.
Understand what communities need and want. This is very important and have good people skills.
Maintain strong iwi connections with all four Southland papatipu rūnanga and support the importance of tikanga Māori.
Appoint an ES CEO committed to true consultation and engagement, working to build a culture that empowers staff and strengthens communities.
Improve community trust by holding regular open forums discussing council activity, strategy choices and long-term plans in simple language.
Hold the line on iwi engagement and shared decision-making, using Mātauranga Māori to guide Southland's resilience for future generations.
Deepen public engagement by using modern tools and community events to ensure all voices are heard.
Strengthen partnership with mana whenua and community through genuine collaboration and shared decision-making.
Lead by example with transparent governance, fair wages, and a culture of openness across council operations.
Understand what communities need and want. This is very important and have good people skills.
Maintain strong iwi connections with all four Southland papatipu rūnanga and support the importance of tikanga Māori.
Appoint an ES CEO committed to true consultation and engagement, working to build a culture that empowers staff and strengthens communities.
Improve community trust by holding regular open forums discussing council activity, strategy choices and long-term plans in simple language.
Hold the line on iwi engagement and shared decision-making, using Mātauranga Māori to guide Southland's resilience for future generations.
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