Petition request

That the House of Representatives urge the Government to keep Selwyn District Council, or any part of it, separate from any authority established under the Head Start or backstop processes that includes Christchurch, unless amalgamation is first approved by a poll of Selwyn electors.

Petition reason

In Selwyn District Council’s July 2026 survey, 58% of 4,035 respondents supported a standalone Selwyn authority and only 18% supported amalgamation with Christchurch, Waimakariri, and Hurunui. The council then submitted a standalone proposal. The Government has not indicated an intention to poll communities before undertaking amalgamation. I believe regional cooperation does not require Selwyn to lose its independent democratic voice, and that amalgamation should require Selwyn voters’ consent.

Signatures are now being accepted
123 days left
Closing date: 28 Feb 2027 11:59 PM NZST

Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 1
Closing date: 28 Feb 2027