And, significantly, it also affects how individuals, families, and private businesses, services and industries view their prospects in the regions. It often feels like the South is swimming against the tide. It is heartbreaking to have that impetus curtailed by the message the Government sends through public sector job and service cuts. The cities, towns and smaller communities that sustain those industries need and deserve the message state investment in jobs and services makes. The ideas have been previously canvassed, of course, and Local Government New Zealand is keen to see them become reality.

Source: Otago Daily Times October 14, 2016 17:15 UTC