10. PHIL TWYFORD (Labour) Link to this
to the Minister of Local Government
Does he stand by the Government’s report on Auckland governance that the proposed 20 to 30 local boards for Auckland will “provide for strong community representation and the ability for residents and ratepayers to influence decision-making”?
Hon RODNEY HIDE (Minister of Local Government) Link to this
Yes, I certainly do. The Government wants local boards to have a meaningful role as a strong local voice on local matters for their communities. This important role will allow the Auckland Council to focus on the critical regional issues. However, this is a delicate balance as the Government does not want the local boards to undermine the Auckland Council’s decision making on regional issues.
Does the Minister agree with Local Government New Zealand president Lawrence Yule, and former chair of the Royal Commission on Auckland Governance, Justice Peter Salmon, that the Government must revisit its proposals around the 20 to 30 local boards in order to ensure that the identity of Auckland’s local communities is preserved and that local assets are managed in the best local interests?
I do agree with him, but it is not about revisiting the Government’s decision. The Government’s decision has been to consult the people of Auckland. That is why we have the select committee, and that is why the process is under way. That is exactly what we are doing.
Does the Minister agree with Prime Minister, John Key, that public feedback has revealed “a desire that the second tier could be stronger”, should have “more authority and autonomy”, and that he had “no doubt” there would be changes to the second tier as a result?
Hon Shane Jones—and far from getting it wrong, as the Hon Shane Jones is calling out, that is actually what genuine consultation with the people of Auckland is all about. It is about putting up our proposals and listening to what people have to say. I know that that might be quite a novel approach for Labour, but it is the way this Government operates.
Does the Minister agree with the assessment of his colleague the Hon Judith Collins that, as they stand, the Government’s local boards are nothing more than tea and scone clubs; if not, why not?
I must say that I support Judith Collins. She has been a fierce advocate for Papakura and her district. I have had many meetings with Judith Collins, and two letters. She and I are both of the same mind in wanting the local boards to have a significant role to play in their communities. Having said that, I point out that, as I said in answer to the primary question, it is important that the local boards are not in a position to undermine the regional decision-making of the Auckland Council.