June - July 2021 report into local government funding and financing makes a series of important recommendations which we hope the Review Panel take up. “Likewise, in many areas around New Zealand there is too much bureaucratic duplication. Amalgamation of authorities where it makes sense has to be on the agenda. “At a time where the Government is amalgamating health services, resource management plans and polytechs, it is a no-brainer to also look at how our local authorities could work better together and, if need be, amalgamate to achieve better local outcomes. “The conversation should be about ensuring the best possible representation while delivering the services our communities expect. “With two years until the final report will be delivered, the Government needs to make sure other major reform pieces – like resource management and climate change – are aligned and avoid unintended consequences. “Now is the opportunity for the future of local government to focus on the issues which directly impact our communities and work towards better local democracy,” Freeman concludes. The Minister is seeking recommendations from the Review that look to achieve: a resilient and sustainable local government system that is fit for purpose and has the flexibility and incentives to adapt to the future needs of local communities; public trust/confidence in local authorities and the local regulatory system that leads to strong leadership; effective partnerships between mana whenua, and central and local
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scale and which can and should be delivered closer to affected communities. “It is very important that central government itself keeps an open mind to reform as the review may identify opportunities to transfer responsibilities and resourcing to local government to better incentivise decisions. “This is a huge opportunity not just to strengthen local government but to improve the entire system of domestic decision making so that New Zealanders continue to enjoy high incomes, a sustainable environment and equal access to opportunities,” Glenn concludes. Property Council of New Zealand Chief Executive Leonie Freeman says this is welcome news for many in the property industry frustrated by barriers to growth and unleashing opportunity and potential. “We welcome the opportunity to help shape the way our local communities are governed,” she says. “It’s not only important for building houses and unlocking critical infrastructure, but it enables thriving cities and communities where people want to live, work and play. “The status quo isn’t working. The Review Panel needs to be bold in its recommendations and not lose focus of what this is about. “Significant issues around funding and financing should be addressed. Kiwis should not have to keep getting whacked in the wallet each year with unaffordable rates rises. “Local authorities should have more levers and tools to fund infrastructure and development spending outside of development contributions and rates. The Productivity Commission’s
government in order to better provide for the social, environmental, cultural, and economic wellbeing of communities; and a local government system that actively embodies the Treaty partnership, through the role and representation of iwi/Māori in local government, and seeks to uphold the Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) and its principles through its functions and processes. The Review’s initial focus will be on how local government will be a key contributor to the wellbeing and prosperity of New Zealand and an essential connection to communities in the governance of New Zealand in the future. This will enable scoping of the broader work to follow, including identifying the process and priority ques-
tions that will be of most benefit to furthering the outcomes outlined in these terms of reference. The Review will then focus on answering the priority questions identified during its initial scoping work. The Review will go ahead in three stages: • 30 September 2021: an interim report presented to the Minister signalling the probable direction of the review and key next steps; • 30 September 2022: Draft report and recommendations to be issued for public consultation; • 30 April 2023: Review presents final report to the Minister and Local Government New Zealand. infrastructurenews.co.nz 63
