Aotearoa New Zealand Exchange Report

Last year, Linda Glenday, CAO for the District of Squamish, was selected as the successful applicant for LGMA’s 2025–2026 Overseas Exchange Program. Representing British Columbia, she attended the Taituara Conference in New Zealand in September 2025. In June 2026, she will host her exchange partner, Jenni Cochrane, Group Manager Customer Experience, Matamata Piako District Council. Linda’s full report on her experience is now available on the LGMA website.

“The Exchange reinforced that building sustainable and thriving communities depends on authentic relationships, meaningful Indigenous cultural integration, and innovative approaches to community safety, including support for vulnerable populations. These lessons provide practical pathways for advancing genuine reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, improving service delivery, and creating inclusive, safe communities across British Columbia.”

Read Linda’s report for more details, and keep an eye out for applications to open for the next Overseas Exchange Program in early 2026!