Do we underestimate the political strength of New Zealand’s local government?

Abstract

The decision to put the Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill (No 2) on hold in September 2016 demonstrates clearly the strength that local government has as a unified political voice within our democracy. Early parliamentary support for deliberation on this proposed amendment has now been withdrawn in the face of a strong and determined response from local councils and those who represent them. And while an impending general election year may have tempered the National-led government’s resolve here, one can only wonder what local government could achieve if it worked together as a united political force more often.