Talk of council amalgamation is gaining momentum across the Wellington region.  Following a recent Wellington Mayoral Forum meeting, mayors from Wellington, Hutt City, Porirua, Kāpiti Coast, and Wairarapa councils have agreed to explore shared services and potential amalgamation models, with a formal process likely to start in early 2026 (Stuff, 11 December 2025).  

Recent local elections in Hutt City and Porirua also showed voter support for exploring amalgamation, adding momentum to the discussion.

But Upper Hutt is not Hutt City.  We are a distinct community with our own identity, priorities, and voice.  Decisions made for larger councils cannot automatically reflect the needs of our residents.

Why local voice matters

Upper Hutt’s council is close to its community, and our elected representatives are accessible and accountable in a way that larger structures often struggle to replicate. Amalgamation risks diluting that voice.  In a larger “super-council,” decisions are likely to be driven by population size and political weight, creating a real risk that Upper Hutt becomes just one suburb among many, rather than a city with its own identity and agency.

Bigger doesn’t always mean better

Proponents argue amalgamation will reduce costs, streamline services, and improve efficiency.  However, evidence from other parts of New Zealand shows that larger councils do not automatically deliver savings.  In some cases, costs increase due to bureaucracy, complexity, and distance from communities.

Upper Hutt already participates in shared services for water, public transport, and emergency management.  Cooperation works — but that does not require dissolving our local council or weakening our voice.

Democracy must be protected

National reforms, including rates caps, governance changes, and RMA updates, are creating uncertainty.  Local democratic representation is more important than ever.  Upper Hutt residents deserve:

• Elected representatives focused primarily on Upper Hutt
• Decision-making that reflects our local priorities
• Meaningful public consultation before structural changes

Exploring options is one thing.  Committing to amalgamation without clear evidence, safeguards, and public consent is another.

Residents must lead the conversation

If amalgamation is considered, it must meet a very high bar:

• Demonstrable benefits for Upper Hutt — not just the wider region
• Guaranteed protections for local decision-making
• Strong community consultation and consent
• Transparency about costs, risks, and long-term impacts

Upper Hutt should not be rushed or swept along by momentum from larger councils. Our city has a proud history and a community that cares deeply about its future. Any reform — especially one as permanent as amalgamation — must start with the people who live here.

Community meeting

A community meeting will be held 20 January 2026, 7.00pm, King Lion Hall, to discuss both water reform and opposing amalgamation. This is an opportunity to:

• Stay informed
• Have your say
• Help shape a community response
• Support keeping Upper Hutt’s voice strong

This is not about resisting change for the sake of it. It’s about protecting local democracy and ensuring Upper Hutt decides its own future — not having it decided for us.

A “thank you” to Rachel Tukaki Kingi for sending this letter to The Upper Hutt Connection.

18/12/25