Regional Council receives roadmap to stronger, smarter future

Published: 30 July 2025

Hawke’s Bay Regional Councillors today received the final report from a major Efficiency and Effectiveness Review – Fit for the Future – aimed at reshaping the organisation to deliver smarter, faster, and more focused regional leadership.

The review was initiated by Councillors during the adoption of the 2024–2027 Long-Term Plan, in response to the unprecedented demands facing the region — from COVID-19 and Cyclone Gabrielle to the growing pressures on local government across the country.

The report, prepared by Alacrity Lab, is the result of extensive engagement with Council staff, elected members, and key stakeholders. It sets out clear recommendations to sharpen Council’s focus, grow performance, and realign the organisation to deliver greater value for the people of Hawke’s Bay.

Chief Executive Dr Nic Peet says the review is about managing costs for ratepayers, zeroing in on the priorities that matter, and adapting to the scale and complexity of the job ahead.

“This is about being clear about outcomes for our communities and making sure our people are supported to succeed.”

He says the review offers a pathway to build a stronger organisation — one that makes better use of its talent and potential.

“We didn’t undertake this review to look backwards — we did it to move forward, with purpose and clarity.

“After a pandemic and a major cyclone, it is the right time to set the organisation up for the future as we deliver for communities right across the region.

“Our aim is to make it easier for staff to do their best work, by clarifying roles, aligning teams to priorities, and strengthening internal processes. We will also be looking at how we deliver services and work with communities.”

He says the outcome will be an organisation that’s more agile, resilient, and equipped to meet future demands.

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