Policy on Approach to External Consultation

Council is a strong advocate for the Horowhenua District and matters affecting the district and role and function of Council and local government more broadly.  This advocacy includes submitting on Central Government reform proposals and legislation, and to consultations by other Councils, Government Departments or Ministries.

Government Reforms

Central Government has indicated that there will continue to be a significant amount of legislative and policy direction reform coming out of Government through 2025 and further. Water Services and Resource Management Reform continue, and detail of Local Government reform is expected in the next few months.

Adoption of the Policy

Council adopted the Policy on Approach to External Consultation in May 2025 to provide a clear approach to guide officers about when and how to engage with Council to prepare Council submissions for external consultations, and to provide more certainty to Elected Members about how their views and how Council endorsement of a submission will be sought. It does not supersede Council’s Standing Orders.

What the Policy covers

The Policy sets out the:

  • drivers for making a submission
  • types of submission
  • approval process.

Horowhenua District Council Policy on Approach to External Consultations(PDF, 220KB)

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