TAKING THE PULSE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN NEW ZEALAND A report on the issues concerning Mayors and Chairs About Simpson Grierson Simpson Grierson is New Zealand's leading local government law firm. Our expertise ranges from the day-to-day operation of councils in their statutory and political environments, to the highest level strategic developments affecting local government as a whole. We advise most local authorities in New Zealand, including the major councils based in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. We have extensive and long-standing networks with key policy and decision makers throughout local government. About LGNZ Local Government New Zealand is the strong voice for great local government. It is governed by a National Council, made up of 15 elected members from throughout New Zealand. LGNZ's purpose is to deliver the sector’s vision: “Local democracy powering community and national success.” LGNZ represents the national interests of councils in New Zealand and leads best practice in the local government sector. It provides advocacy and policy services, business support, advice and training to members to assist them to build successful communities throughout New Zealand. Contacts Malcolm Alexander – Chief Executive LGNZ Email:
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[email protected] 2 Contents Introduction 2 Summary of Key Findings 3 Key Finding 1: Economic growth and jobs are the important issues 4 Key Finding 2: Funding availability and consistency of central 6