Thursday, 04 December 2025 12:25

Political colours

Written by The Hound

font size decrease font size increase font size

OPINION: Your old mate welcomes the proposed changes to local government but notes it drew responses that ranged from the reasonable to the ridiculous, depending on what axe people had to grind.

Dr Deon Swiggs, chair of Canterbury Regional Council was measured: “I’m committed to working constructively with Government on reforms that deliver better outcomes.”

Fed Farmers spokesperson Sandra Faulkner was positive: “This discussion is long overdue and will be welcome news for farming families and rural ratepayers.”

But, predictably, and in line with other unions, the PSA’s national secretary Duane Leo had absolutely nothing positive to say about National’s proposal: “There is no clarity around the reform. These reforms continue the Government’s ongoing focus on marginalising Maori in local decision making.”

No surprises there!

More like this

Faulkner: Take Rural Infrastructure Out of Politics

Federated Farmers' new vice president Sandra Faulkner says the issue of adverse events emergency management and infrastructure needs to be taken out of the three-year political cycle.

Federated Farmers: Rural Voices Must Shape Reform

Certainty and a clear understanding of the needs of rural communities is a critical outcome in the series of government reforms that are taking place at present.

New Feds VP Ready To Work For Farmers

Newly appointed Federated Farmers vice president Sandra Faulkner says she is honoured and excited to hold the role.

Hurst Is New Feds President

South Canterbury farmer Colin Hurst has been elected as the new president of Federated Farmers.

Farmers Demand Rural Voices Protected in Local Government Amalgamation Plans

Farmers around the country are going public big time, demanding their local district, city and regional councils come up with amalgamation plans that meet the needs of rural communities and don't allow urban councils to dominate.

Featured

Ballance Welcomes National's Policy on Securing Fertiliser Supply Contracts

Farmer-owned fertiliser company, Ballance Agri Nutrients is welcoming National’s plan to negotiate security agreements with key supplier countries to protect New Zealand-bound products from export restrictions and greater supply chain certainty.

Carrfields Appoints Stu Hall as Chief Operating Officer

Carrfields has announced the appointment of Stu Hall to the newly created role of chief operating officer, Carrfields Ltd, reflecting the continued growth of their agribusinesses and the need to ensure the company has the leadership capacity and support in place as it pursues the emerging opportunities ahead.

NZ Apple Growers Ready to Share Expertise in India

New Zealand's role is not to compete with Indian growers, according to NZ Apples and Pears.

James Blair Named 2026 Young Grower of the Year

The potato industry is celebrating the success of two rising stars - James Blair, the 2026 Young Grower of the Year and runner-up and innovation award winner, Amber Davy.

Rabobank Launches HortPathways for Emerging Hort Leaders

Twenty-eight emerging leaders from across the horticulture sector spent two days last month learning valuable skills and connecting with industry experts.

Young Horticulturist of the Year: Meet the Five Finalists

There are five entrants in this year’s Young Horticulturist of the Year, competing in a series of technical, practical, business and leadership challenges.