New Zealand’s Regional Councils: Who They Are and Why They Matter

Across New Zealand, regional and unitary councils quietly shape the chemical footprint of our public spaces. Glyphosate is no exception.

These councils manage vast stretches of land—roadsides, parks, waterways, and reserves—where weed control is routine. Many still rely on glyphosate-based herbicides like Roundup® as their go-to spray. Some have begun shifting to safer alternatives. Others haven’t moved at all.

That’s where you come in.

If your local council is still using glyphosate, they need to hear from you. Decisions often come down to cost, habit, or lack of public pressure. By speaking up—clearly and respectfully—you can help turn concern into change.


Regional and Unitary Councils Directory

Below are New Zealand’s 16 regional-level councils, including both regional councils and unitary authorities. Each listing includes a link to their website and, where available, contact details for elected councillors.

Northland Regional Council

Website: Northland Regional Council
Meet Your Councillors

Auckland Council

Website: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/
Ward councillors
Find your local board

Waikato Regional Council

Website: https://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/
Councillors & Committees

Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Website: https://www.boprc.govt.nz/
Your Councillors

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council

Website: https://www.hbrc.govt.nz/
Our Councillors

Gisborne District Council (Tairāwhiti)

Website: https://www.gdc.govt.nz/
Your Councillors

Taranaki Regional Council

Website: https://www.trc.govt.nz/
Elected councillors

Horizons Regional Council (Manawatū–Whanganui)

Website: https://www.horizons.govt.nz/
Your Councillors

Greater Wellington Regional Council

Website: https://www.gw.govt.nz/
Meet the Councillors

Nelson City Council

Website: https://www.nelson.govt.nz/
Your Councillors

Tasman District Council

Website: https://www.tasman.govt.nz/
Your Councillors
Community boards & advisory groups

Marlborough District Council

Website: https://www.marlborough.govt.nz
Your Councillors

West Coast Regional Council

Website: https://www.wcrc.govt.nz/
Your Councillors

Environment Canterbury (Canterbury Regional Council)

Website: https://www.ecan.govt.nz/
Your Councillors

Otago Regional Council

Website: https://www.orc.govt.nz/
Your Councillors

Environment Southland (Southland Regional Council)

Website: https://www.es.govt.nz/
Your councillors


Take Action

If your council isn’t on track to reduce or phase out glyphosate, make your voice heard. Contact your regional councillors and ask:

  • What is your current weed management policy?
  • Are non-chemical alternatives being trialled?
  • Will you commit to phasing out glyphosate?

You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to care—and speak up.

Together, we can make glyphosate-free public spaces the new normal.