Join us for a crucial discussion about transforming our local government system. The New Zealand Initiative’s new research reveals why councils struggle to deliver for their communities - and more importantly, how this can be fixed.
Senior Fellow Nick Clark will present findings from his report “Making Local Government Work”, showing how the democratic void between voter expectations and reality drives council dysfunction. He will outline proven solutions, including successful reforms from Germany that transformed a system similar to ours.
Mayor Victor Luca of Whakatāne will share first-hand insights into the challenges mayors face and the potential for reform, drawing on both his experience leading a council and his international research background.
Our Executive Director Oliver Hartwich will contribute perspectives from his extensive experience with local government systems in Europe and Australasia.
Date: Tuesday, 10 December 2024
Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm
Please register for the webinar via this link. Also, submit your question in advance on Slido.com using code #1663030
About the speakers:
Nick Clark - Senior Fellow, The New Zealand Initiative
Nick brings 30 years of policy and advocacy experience to the analysis of local government reform. His extensive work on local government issues includes administering the Local Government Business Forum.
Dr Victor Luca - Mayor of Whakatāne
Victor combines scientific leadership experience from major research institutions with practical insights as a sitting mayor. His unique perspective bridges theoretical understanding and practical governance challenges.
Dr Oliver Hartwich - Executive Director, The New Zealand Initiative
Oliver has analysed local government systems across multiple countries, including as Research Fellow at the Centre for Independent Studies in Sydney and Chief Economist at Policy Exchange in London. He holds a PhD in Law from Germany’s Bochum University.
Join us to explore how New Zealand can create a local government system that truly serves its communities.