Published: 9 July 2026
Lower Hutt Mayor Ken Laban has released a discussion document informed by recent stakeholder and community feedback to help guide the Wellington region’s Head Start conversations about the future shape of local government.
The document is not a formal Head Start proposal, it’s a contribution to the regional design process and a reference point for Hutt City Council’s elected members as they consider emerging options. It will help inform discussions with other Councils as they work towards a regional proposal, and could also influence Government thinking around its developing backstop process.
Mayor Ken Laban says the work reflects what the community has consistently told Council matters most. “Keeping decisions close to local communities while working regionally where it can improve services, infrastructure and deliver value for ratepayers are key to any future model,” says Mayor Laban.
Last week a Stakeholder Forum held in Lower Hutt to discuss Head Start was attended by around 150 representatives from Mana Whenua, the business community, sporting and cultural organisations, residents’ associations, advocacy and support groups.
“One of the strongest messages to elected members at the Forum was to lead with courage, transparency and integrity and to advocate strongly for our local community and their interests.
“People told us they support working together, but not at any cost. They want confidence that their community won't lose its identity, its voice or control over the things that make it unique.
Mayor Laban says the discussion document seeks to respond to the feedback received to date by exploring practical design options and protections that would help give communities confidence in any future changes. These include maintaining local representation, protecting community decision-making, retaining local services and continuing to recognise and work with Mana Whenua.
“It’s about including safeguards to protect local communities during any future transition.
"We don't have to choose between regional efficiency and local democracy. We can have both if we design the new system well. We've been given an opportunity to help shape our own future. I believe that's far better than having one designed for us."
“This is not Lower Hutt telling others what the answer should be. It’s a contribution to a regional conversation and shows my view, informed by our community of what the future could look like. I fully accept that it is for the Wairarapa to determine how it sees its future.
“There is more discussion ahead before the Government’s deadline in August for Head Start submissions. It’s important that Councils across the region continue to help shape any formal proposal,” says Mayor Laban.
The document was discussed by Hutt City Council’s elected members at a briefing this week and has been shared as part of ongoing regional discussions under the Government’s voluntary Head Start process.
You can find the discussion document here
You can find Hutt City Council’s amalgamation information webpage here