In partnership with Taituarā — Local Government Professionals Aotearoa, LGMA is now accepting applications for the 2026/27 Overseas Manager Exchange Program. Open to LGMA regular members who have held membership for two or more years, this opportunity is one of a range of LGMA initiatives that provide leadership and development opportunities specifically tailored to the local government environment.

Gain professional, personal, and cultural experience that can strengthen your management skills and competencies, be applied back at your local government, and support your career development. Key components and benefits include:

• spend two weeks in Aotearoa New Zealand visiting local governments, networking, and establishing long-lasting relationships,
• attend the Taituarā Annual Conference in September 2026,
• discuss local government issues with your host manager and how they are being addressed,
• share best practices and gain a deeper understanding of your own local government issues,
• host your exchange partner in your own region and at the LGMA Annual Conference in June 2027,
• report back on your experience and educate your colleagues.

For detailed information on the program and to apply, visit the Overseas Exchange program page. To read a first-hand account of the program, read the 2025-25 Exchange Manager report.

Applications close on Friday, April 17, 2026.