Newsline 2 April 2026
Mayor's Column
Last Tuesday, Council held the first workshop for the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan (LTP). Every LTP is important, but this one will be among the most significant and challenging we have developed. We are planning for the future of our district at a time of considerable uncertainty.
Emergency Management reform - explained
Local government is at the frontline of emergency management. Councils lead work across the four Rs of risk reduction, readiness, response and recovery. They do this by mapping local hazards, investing in building resilience and running community readiness programmes.
Learning from the past
It's been 40 years since the devastating floods of March 1986, which caused widespread damage across our region. Waimate District – known then as Waimate County – experienced significant impacts, with major damage to roads, local transport routes, and property.
Meeting snippets
Audit and Risk Committee Meeting, March 2026: An overview of meeting components including Health and safety, major projects, legislative reforms, policy status, risk register and audit matters.
Community and Sports Grants Open
Applications for financial assistance are invited for three grants. Community Grant: Open to clubs and organisations which do not qualify for funding under the Creative Communities NZ Scheme. Sports Grant: Open to clubs and organisations for help with sporting endeavours. Sport NZ Rural Travel Fund: Designed to help subsidise travel for rural junior teams.
Water Services Committee – update
In an Ordinary Council meeting on 24 March, Mayor Craig Rowley, Councillor Peter Paterson and Councillor Jakki Guilford were appointed to the Water Services Committee.
