Local Heart. Future Mind
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A council we can trust
Our home is special. Not just because of the mountains, lakes, and seasons, but because of the people who care for it. Since I can remember, this community has shaped the character of this place, and in turn, it has shaped us. We are part of the system that makes it what it is. When we work together, we are stronger and that’s how we’ll keep it thriving for the future.
Community is shaped by where we live and what we care about - and here, we share both. Council should work together for the common good, with honesty, integrity, and respect for our values and resources. This is how we strengthen the bond between council and community, and build partnerships that make real progress possible.
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Planning for the future
Smarter today, stronger tomorrow.
QLDC’s challenges from financial pressure to climate risk won’t be solved by short-term fixes or bigger budgets. We need leadership that boldly thinks ahead, collaborates widely, and gets the most out of every resource. By combining smart problem-solving with long-term vision, we can meet today’s needs while building a district that’s thriving, resilient, and fair for future generations.
local elections & voting
Local elections decide who represents you on Council, the people making decisions about your town’s future. They shape how rates are spent and set the direction for growth, infrastructure, and community wellbeing.
Voting is your chance to have a say in who makes those decisions. For more information or to check if you’re enrolled go to vote.nz.
2026 is a General election year. Please make sure you use an open mind to look at the options and then be sure to vote from From 26 October 2026 to 7 November 2026.
What does a council do?
Local councils shape everything from the parks you play in to the pipes under your street. They decide where your rates go, plan for the future, and keep the essentials ticking over. Understand the process, and suddenly those frustrating headlines start making a whole lot more sense.
Planning where and how homes and businesses develop—setting the rules that guide growth.
Maintaining and building parks, playgrounds, and public spaces.
Delivering clean water, managing wastewater, and handling stormwater — safeguarding our lakes and rivers.
Running waste collection, recycling, and pushing for smarter waste reduction.
Managing libraries, community centres, and other shared facilities.
Keeping street lighting, ensuring building safety, and preparing for emergencies.
Planning for future challenges like climate change, population growth, and infrastructure upgrades.
Setting and managing rates — though rates alone don’t always cover everything, meaning tough budgeting decisions are constantly needed.
Let's clear some misconceptions:
Council isn’t just a faceless bureaucracy, it’s required by law to consult with you. They must listen to and include your voice in decision-making.
People sometimes think “Council makes all the rules” — not true. For most regulations, Council is the messenger and the referee, not the author. They’re required to follow national legislation, but they can tailor it to local conditions within those boundaries.
The council manages the CEO, and the CEO oversees staff and day-to-day operations—not the other way around.
Authorised by Nicola King, Promoter, 51 Loach Rd, Hawea Flat. Contact hello@ingoodnic.co.nz