The Prime Minister has the power to assist or intervene in local authority matters if necessary. Tension is also high at Tauranga City Council after members called for Mayor Tenby Powell to resign. Hosking asked Ardern whether the Government intended to "takeover in some way, shape or form the Tauranga City Council or the Invercargill City Council". When pressed again, Ardern replied "the idea that we are taking over a council, though, is incorrect". Hosking, however, put it to her again, with the Prime Minister responding, "Mike, when has this Government ever taken over a council?

Source: Otago Daily Times August 24, 2020 21:25 UTC