
Regional Spatial Planning: what we heard across the motu
From governance and funding to partnership with iwi and Māori, we explore the common challenges and different approaches emerging across Aotearoa’s regions.

Taituarā remembers To’osavili Nigel Bickle
Taituarā is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Heretaunga Hastings District Council Chief Executive To’osavili Nigel Bickle.

Updated Dog Control and Enforcement Guidelines published
New Dog Control and Enforcement Guidelines have been published, with Taituarā helping ensure the guidance reflects council practice and aligns with the Council Toolkit.

Regional Spatial Planning Roadshow connecting councils across Aotearoa
Six regions down and five to go, the Regional Spatial Planning Roadshow is already revealing valuable insights into how councils are preparing for reform.

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.

Refreshed Council Toolkit now live
The refreshed Taituarā Council Toolkit is now live, with improved search, easier navigation, and new resources for local government.

Introducing our Pou Ārahi: Alecia “Leish” Thompson
Taituarā is excited to welcome Leish into the newly created position of Pou Ārahi. She will play a key role in supporting the organisation’s Te Tiriti journey.

Coaching for local government leaders
Jenny McDonald explores why coaching is playing an increasingly important role in supporting local government leaders to navigate complexity, conflict and change.

Collaboration in action: a new model for building consent processing
Contributed by the Co-Lab team, this piece explores how councils across Waikato and Bay of Plenty are improving building consent services through a shared model that boosts efficiency, consistency, and resilience.

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!

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.
