The Labour Government’s divisive legacy continues to influence government policy today. During her reign as Local Government Minister, Nanaia Mahuta — elected by the Māori electorate — introduced policies that were explicitly aimed at benefitting her constituency. One of these is reflected in the proposed introduction of a standardised code of conduct for elected members of council, which includes significantly expanded Treaty obligations. Another is the intention to empower the Secretary for Local Government (an unelected public servant) to issue a standardised code of conduct which would be binding on all councils. Continue reading

Results of the questionnaire sent to 1776 local body candidates around the country. This report shows which candidates responded to the five questions listed below. Many also shared comments to support their answers, as you can see.  We hope their responses help you evaluate which candidates are committed to upholding the key principles of democracy. Continue reading

Local government should be accountable to the people. Yet across the country, councils are giving unelected appointees voting rights - the same as elected councillors - on committees that determine policy and how our rates are spent. Continue reading

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Candidate nominations for this year’s local body elections have now closed, and campaigning is ramping up. This is the perfect time to ask candidates the important questions — before we vote, we need to know where they stand on key issues. Continue reading

In its coalition deal with NZ First, National agreed to "conduct a comprehensive review of all legislation (except when it is related to, or substantive to, existing full and final Treaty settlements) that includes 'The Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi'". Continue reading

Over the past three years, over 40 councils across New Zealand have introduced Māori wards without first seeking a public mandate. The Coalition Government believes such decisions should rest with local communities. Continue reading

The Auckland Council has approved a Deed of Acknowledgement with local iwi Te Kawerau ā Maki. The Deed identifies specific opportunities for the iwi to be formally involved in the management of public land within the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area. Continue reading

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Auckland Council received just over 2,000 submissions on its proposed Deed of Acknowledgement with Te Kawerau ā Maki, a report on which has been presented in a closed workshop to the three local boards concerned and the members of the Policy and Planning Committee. Continue reading