Communities Lead the Future of Social Services in Ōpōtiki, Porirua & West Coast

The New Zealand Government has selected communities in Ōpōtiki, Porirua, and the West Coast to pilot Community-led Commissioning, allowing local leaders to design and manage social services tailored to their areas while being held accountable for outcomes. These groups will focus on addressing specific local priorities such as breaking cycles of disadvantage, securing housing, improving access to healthy food, and connecting health and social support across isolated regions. The initiative aims to replace centralized decision-making with community-driven solutions, with plans subject to Ministerial approval and the goal of expanding the approach nationwide if successful.