Better local government for New Zealanders

National’s “Better Local Government” reforms are part of our programme for building a more productive, competitive economy, and better public services for New Zealanders.

Ratepayers need to know their council is spending their money wisely, on services that matter to them. New Zealand’s 78 councils spend $7.5 billion dollars of public money each year. Since 2002 council debt has quadrupled from $2 billion to $8 billion, and rates have increased 7 per cent a year.

Our reforms will focus councils on their core roles of providing local infrastructure, public services, and regulatory functions, at the least cost to households and businesses. They will make councils more fiscally responsible, strengthen council governance provisions, and streamline council reorganisation processes.

Simply put, they will give councils more tools to help keep debt down and rates affordable for our families.

For more information, click here.