Ngā take matua mā ngā Kaunihera
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Key issues for councils

Decoding policy and making it meaningful across key national reforms and local issues.

Local government is faced with enormous challenges and opportunities right now. We identify issues as they arise and advocate on behalf of our members to build vibrant communities that support economic, environmental, cultural and social wellbeing. We provide policy expertise to help unpack the proposals, the reforms, the consultation papers, the policy documents and the legal opinions impacting local government.

Together with our members, we reach a position that considers the ‘big picture’ and draft submissions and publications that councils/kaunihera can adapt and use for their own purposes. Then, via our direct engagement with government, we shape the policy that affects you.

We tackle a wide range of issues from climate change to freedom camping, water management to forestry.

Read about our specific areas of focus across key national reforms, and local and national challenges and opportunities affecting local government.

  • Future for local government
    Our contribution into how our system of local democracy and governance needs to evolve over the next 30 years.
  • Water services
    Local government has been calling for water services reform to help address historic underinvestment and mounting future costs.
  • Resource management
    Resource management involves making tough decisions about how we use our resources to support growth and protect the environment.
  • Climate change
    Our work supporting communities to mitigate the impacts of climate change and develop greater resilience.
  • Emergency management and recovery
    When natural disasters hit, communities turn to their councils for help and information.
  • Transport
    Transport networks are critical infrastructure and the lifeblood of communities, transporting goods and connecting people.
  • Housing
    All councils want their communities to be able to access affordable and healthy homes.
  • Environment
    Councils play a critical role in managing natural resources for the long-term benefit of New Zealanders.
  • Public libraries
    Modern libraries are hubs delivering vital community services.