A comprehensive review of local government announced yesterday comes as the sector confronts having a diminished role amid water and resource management reforms, as well as facing ongoing financial and structural challenges. Mr Hawkins said the review announced by Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta provided a chance to push back. Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher said he hoped the review would result in a true partnership between central and local government. Central Otago Mayor Tim Cadogan said local government would be much different after the other reforms and the review was timely. Otakou kaumatua Edward Ellison said the review went hand in hand with resource management reform and was optimistic relationships between local government and manawhenua could be built on.

Source: Otago Daily Times April 23, 2021 16:32 UTC