Media Release: Bringing government back to the people
LGNZ and The New Zealand Initiative start 'Project Localism'
Wellington (15 July 2018): Instead of relying on central government to decide what is good for our communities it is time to empower councils and communities themselves to make such decisions, Local Government New Zealand and The New Zealand Initiative say.
LGNZ and the Initiative have today presented their Localism project. Together, they call for devolution and decentralisation in the way New Zealand is run.
Releasing a joint position statement this afternoon, LGNZ President Dave Cull said New Zealand needs to restore the balance between local and central government.
“Both tiers of government must work together, each contributing what they do best,” says Mr Cull.
“Centralised countries tend to be less wealthy and have lower standards of living. New Zealand is among the most centralised countries in the world. We should not expect central government in Wellington to be the best decision-maker for every local problem. Communities often know best what they need.”
“This means that services will be more responsive, better focused on local issues and delivered in a manner which is consistent with local values and cultures,” says Mr Cull. “This will give local citizens, iwi/Māori organisations, businesses and community groups a greater say.”
The New Zealand Initiative’s Executive Director Dr Oliver Hartwich added, “After more than a century of centralism, New Zealand needs to go local. Councils and communities must be able to make their own decisions about their future.”
The joint project between LGNZ and The New Zealand Initiative is calling for a shift in the way public decisions are made in New Zealand by seeking a commitment to localism.
Read the local government position statement here.
ENDS
For more information, and to arrange interviews with Dave Cull, please contact LGNZ’s Deputy Chief Executive, Helen Mexted on 029 924 1221 or email helen.mexted@lgnz.co.nz.
Dr Oliver Hartwich is also available for comment: 021 0815 4973 or oliver.hartwich@nzinitiative.org.nz.
About LGNZ and local government in New Zealand
Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) is the peak body representing New Zealand's 78 local, regional and unitary authorities.
LGNZ advocates for local democracy, develops local government policy, and promotes best practice and excellence in leadership, governance and service delivery. Through its work strengthening sector capability, LGNZ contributes to the economic success and vibrancy of communities and the nation.
The local government sector plays an important role. In addition to giving citizens a say in how their communities are run, councils own a broad range of community assets worth more than $120 billion. These include 90 per cent of New Zealand's road network, the bulk of the country's water and waste water networks, and libraries, recreation and community facilities. Council expenditure is approximately $8.5 billion dollars, representing approximately 4 per cent of Gross Domestic Product and 11 per cent of all public expenditure. For more information visit www.lgnz.co.nz.
About The New Zealand Initiative
The New Zealand Initiative is an evidence-based think tank and research institute, which is supported by a membership organisation that counts some of the country’s leading visionaries, business leaders and political thinkers among its ranks.
Our members are committed to developing policies to make New Zealand a better country for all its citizens. We believe all New Zealanders deserve a world-class education system, affordable housing, a healthy environment, sound public finances and a stable currency.
The New Zealand Initiative pursues this goal by participating in public life, and making a contribution to public discussions.