Clutha District and Central Otago committed to Head Start proposal

Joint statement from Clutha and Central Otago District councils:

We are disappointed by Queenstown Lakes District Council's decision today, but it does not diminish the Head Start proposal that Central Otago and Clutha have committed to. That proposal will still go to Government.

Leadership means standing up for the communities we represent, and there is no appetite among our communities to see smaller towns and rural areas marginalised by larger entities.

Our proposal keeps catchments aligned, recognises the Clutha/Mata-Au as a single living system from source to sea, and reflects Kāi Tahu aspirations for integrated catchment management. These are not self-serving interests – they are a vision that encompasses all communities.

Central Otago Mayor Tamah Alley says the focus remains on the long-term.

"Our aspiration has always been to help shape a local government model that serves our people, protects local voice, and is fit for the challenges and opportunities of the future."

Clutha Mayor Jock Martin says the proposal stands on its merits.

"I'm strongly advocating for the rural voice and believe the Head Start proposal that captures the 'mountains to the sea' – including CODC, QLDC and ourselves – is well thought out and has merit."

We remain committed to collaboration, and if our proposal proceeds, we would welcome all councils into the design process. The rural voice must not just survive this reform – it must thrive.