Taituarā member profile: Kataraina O’Brien
Kataraina’s 30-year local government career has been shaped by curiosity, connection and embracing change – and is now taking her all the way to Canada.
Tactically Tasman brings home more than the bronze
The Tasman District Council has done Aotearoa and Taituarā proud, finishing equal third at the 2026 Australasian Management Challenge Final in Hobart.
Local government excellence recognised across Aotearoa
Waikato Regional Council has taken out the LGFA Taituarā Supreme Award, at the 2026 LGFA Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards.
Under pressure – teams deliver at the Taituarā Management Challenge
13 teams from across the motu came together for the Taituarā Management Challenge, showcasing teamwork, resilience and growth in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Members’ Choice Award finalists announced for 2026 Excellence Awards
Taituarā members have spoken in greater numbers than ever – now the top finalists have emerged in the Members’ Choice Award finals!
Partnerships with Māori driving change in award entries
Record entries highlight how councils are building strong, enduring partnerships with Māori to deliver better outcomes for communities.
Eight entries showcase environmental leadership across Aotearoa
Excellence in Environmental Leadership entries showcase councils protecting the environment, tackling climate challenges, and delivering measurable sustainability outcomes.
Smart thinking drives cost effectiveness entries
Entries in the Co-Lab Award for Cost Effectiveness highlight councils delivering outcomes through smarter design, stronger data, and innovative approaches.
Stronger together: collaboration category reaches new high
Record entries for this year’s Morrison Low Advisory Award for Excellence in Collaborating for Results.
18 entries highlight strength of community engagement across the motu
Community engagement shines in 2026 Awards, with 18 entries showcasing how councils are partnering with communities to drive better local outcomes.
Councils transform communities in Placemaking Award entries
Town centre upgrades, playgrounds, and cultural landmarks feature in this year’s Beca Award for Excellence in Placemaking entries.
Tech transforming local government: Digital Award entries revealed
Five entries in Datascape Award for Excellence in Digital Local Government highlight how digital innovation is transforming local government services.
