Regional Council confirms organisational change proposal

Published: 3 March 2026

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council has begun consulting on a proposed organisational change aimed at keeping the council affordable for ratepayers while continuing to meet the needs of the region.

The proposal reflects rising costs, changes to resource management responsibilities, and evolving expectations about how councils work with communities and landowners. While the council has already made a number of cost‑saving changes over the past year, further steps are now being considered to support long‑term financial sustainability and ensure services can continue to be delivered effectively.

The council is currently meeting directly with staff who may be affected before sharing the proposal more widely across the organisation. This approach is intended to ensure those most impacted hear about the proposal first, in a private and respectful way, before broader discussion begins.

Chief Executive Nic Peet said organisational change is not being undertaken lightly.

“We have taken steps to reduce costs and improve efficiency, but further change is now necessary to ensure we remain affordable for our ratepayers and able to meet the expectations ahead.

“Our priority is to work directly with affected staff and to conduct a fair and respectful process.

“Organisational change can be difficult, and the council is committed to supporting staff through the process.

“Out of respect for the confidentiality of this employment process, the council will not be making further public comment while we work through the proposal. This process is expected to take several weeks,” he said.

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