August update: Mayoral Forum

The Mayoral Forum met at Peppers Clearwater Resort on 26 August. Significant agenda items are summarised on this page.

Resource Management reform

Liz Moncrieff and Jennifer Hutcheon from the Ministry for the Environment joined the meeting. Liz provided an update on RM reform, noting the Wai 2358 claim before the Waitangi Tribunal which will inform who is identified as Māori in the legislation. Members discussed their views on participating in the model region project, including the desire for Canterbury to lead in this space, strong concerns around council resourcing, and the desire for a sub-regional approach.

Regional Public Service Commissioner update

Dianne McDermott, Acting Regional Public Service Commissioner, joined the meeting to provide an update on the Regional Leadership Group and its work on identifying priorities for the public service.

Coordinating regional economic development

The Forum received an update on the coordination of regional economic development, and agreed to write a letter of support for Kaikōura District Council’s South Bay Harbour business case.

Reflections on the 2019–2022 term

Members reflected on the triennium, noting: fellowship and collegiality, collaboration, and the opportunity to make meaningful change as leaders of Canterbury. Outgoing members gave valedictory speeches.

Other agenda items included

Triennium agreement and approach to briefing the incoming Forum following local government elections
Engagement with Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand
Education and training governance
Climate Change Steering Group update
Canterbury Water Management Strategy update
Chief Executives Forum report.