Local councils 'left in limbo' after amalgamation process paused

<p>Mayors from Wellington and Ashburton say they feel "left in limbo" and "disappointed" by the Government's decision to <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/09/24/council-amalgamation-plan-paused-after-millions-spent-on-proposals/" target="_blank">pause amalgamation processes</a> despite councils having put time and money into drafting proposals. </p> <p>Yesterday Local Government Minister Simon Watts and RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop said Cabinet would not consider the head start proposals until early 2027, despite councils spending an estimated $9 million developing plans.</p> <p>Critics - including Labour - said the process has wasted ratepayer money and council resources, while the ministers insisted reforms were still on track for the 2028 local elections.</p> <p>Watts said more work was required on the 18 proposals submitted in August. </p> <p>"They were high quality, but a number of them do have gaps. It's prudent for us to work through those gaps and close those gaps so that Cabinet can make a decision in regards to progressing those.