Minister Shuts Down Mayor's Claim Of Softening Stance On Local Body AmalgamationRussell Palmer Political reporterLocal Government Minister Simon Watts says policy on amalgamation has not changed, after one mayor indicated a softening of the government's position. That 9 August deadline - pitched as giving councils a "head start" on amalgamation discussions - is fast approaching. Discussions had started with Horizons Regional Council, covering Manawatū-Whanganui, but Tararua covered a "massive, massive" area already and regional council areas were based on water catchments, Gilmore said. "Our position is and has always been that we will work with councils - head start was specifically designed to give councils control over their plans. "Change is coming and the government will progress with the back stop for councils not in the head start.