Why two small councils are on opposite ends of the amalgamation debate (opens original article in a new tab)

Two small New Zealand councils are divided on amalgamation, with Southland supporting it for efficiency and Ōpōtiki opposing it over representation and rates.

• Southland District Council supports amalgamation with Gore and regional functions due to duplication and inefficiencies.
• Ōpōtiki Mayor David Moore opposes amalgamation, citing concerns over representation and rates in smaller councils.
• Government's 'Head Start' plan requires councils to submit amalgamation plans by August, with penalties for non-compliance.