Otago Mayoral Forum - March 2025

Forum highlights

Water services 

• Forum members shared updates on water services reform discussions at their respective councils. This included ongoing collaboration across a four-council group that includes Waitaki, Clutha and Central Otago.

LGNZ National Council

• Mayor Radich provided an update on LGNZ matters in his capacity as a National Council member representing the metro sector. Mayor Radich observed that LGNZ as an organisation is continually reviewing how it can better serve members and the local government sector in New Zealand.

Youth (dis)engagement

• Members raised concerns about youth disengagement in some of Otago's centres. It was noted that there are several government and non-government organisations able to provide support prior to police becoming involved.  

Regional Deals

• Forum members shared updates on regional deal proposals in Otago. Two were submitted by the deadline, for Central Otago Lakes and Coastal Otago.

Regional Public Service Commissioner

• The Forum was joined by Regional Public Service Commissioner for Otago and Southland Steph Voight, as part of its commitment to a joined-up public service in Otago. 

Minutes

• Signed minutes for this meeting are included in the papers for the Forum's next meeting.