
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.

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.

Taituarā submission on the Hospitality Sector Review
A call for clearer guidance, streamlined processes, and consistent enforcement to strengthen New Zealand’s hospitality sector.

Advocating for play, active recreation, and sport
Local government has a unique and critical role in the play, active recreation, and sport ecosystem.

Local Play Workforce Project – Councils: Cohort Two underway
The Local Play Advocates focus on influencing better play outcomes for tamariki inside their councils.

Recent changes to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012
Sale and Supply of Alcohol Amendment Act 2023 makes it easier to have a say on alcohol regulation.

Final freedom camping regulations released
Freedom camping reform has moved a step closer to implementation with the release of final regulations.

Public libraries a hidden gem, new report finds
lic libraries contribute massively to people’s feeling of happiness and wellbeing, and sense of connection.

Update on alcohol licensing reforms
The Government is now progressing work on alcohol law in two phases: immediate and long term.

Productivity Commission releases report on disadvantage
‘A fair chance for all’ examines the issue of persistent disadvantage in Aotearoa and as how we can address it.
