The proposal would create a new Western Waikato unitary authority, despite Taupō choosing not to participate. “None of these options currently before us, including the Western Waikato, are ready or right for Taupō, right here right now.” Councillor Rachel Cameron echoed those concerns, describing the Government’s approach as a choice between leading reform or having reform imposed. She said every financial and non-financial assessment undertaken by the council suggested Taupō would not be better off under the current proposal. The Government’s Simplifying Local Government programme has given councils just 90 days to prepare outline proposals, with submissions due by 9 August.