Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) is leading discussions about options for addressing current and likely future funding shortfalls in local government.

This week LGNZ is hosting two events where panels of experts will discuss issues and options that we as a country need to consider for the sustainability of local government funding.  These seminars outline the issues and discuss a vision of sustainable, long-term and adequate resources for local government.  

The LGNZ Local Government Funding Review was launched last year to examine the issues and consider alternative options to fund communities’ increasing demands.  In February LGNZ and its cross-sector Local Government Funding Review Working Group released a discussion paper on this topic. 

The Wellington ‘Issues and Options for Local Government Funding’ seminar tonight will feature addresses from:

• Dr Oliver Hartwich, Executive Director of the New Zealand Initiative
• Raf Manji, Christchurch City Council Councillor
• Dr William Rolleston, National President of Federated Farmers 

The Auckland ‘Issues and Options for Local Government Funding’ seminar on Thursday 19 March will feature addresses from:

• Penny Webster, Chair of the Funding Review Working Group and Auckland Councillor
• Adam Feeley, Chief Executive of Queenstown Lakes District Council
• Basil Chamberlain, Chief Executive of Taranaki Regional Council

“Local government is an important contributor to local and national economic success – it plays an essential role in the lives of New Zealanders through infrastructure and services,” LGNZ President Lawrence Yule says.

“But the proper incentives and resources must be in place to successfully drive economic prosperity, plan for infrastructure and anticipate social demands.”

For more information about these events or to register, please click here.  Seating for the Wellington event is full.

Submissions for the Local Government Funding Review discussion paper close on 27 March.  For more information, please click here.