Local Government stories
The move to remote work was a seismic shift in the way their projects were managed and delivered for both staff and external consultants.
A new industry panel will shape New Zealand’s switch to risk-based roadworks safety rules, with 12 appointees chosen from 38 applicants.
A father left with 11 surgeries after a 12-metre fall will receive reparation as the council is held accountable for safety lapses at the festival.
Urban trees and gardens are shrinking as intensification raises heat, flooding and liveability risks for New Zealand’s cities.
Auckland ratepayers are facing renewed scrutiny of amalgamation as critics say bigger councils bring higher costs, weaker oversight and less local control.
Councils could face heavier compliance costs and less say over local water services if the current reform model goes ahead, LGNZ says.
Councils could lose influence over local planning as new regional committees shift decisions further from communities and raise funding concerns.
WorkSafe and Water Safety New Zealand warn pond owners to fence off hazards after a council's sentencing over three-year-old Lachlan Jones' death.
Experts warn rebuilding in flood-hit areas could lock communities into repeated damage, forcing a national rethink on who pays to move.
Struggling councils would likely face heavier rates or extra borrowing under National’s plan, as water upgrades remain badly underfunded.
Worksites face fresh safety guidance as WorkSafe consults on how to stop containers creating traffic, stability and stacking hazards.
Homeowners risk mould and structural damage if flood repairs begin before hidden moisture is fully removed, new BRANZ guidance warns.
Climate scientists say Auckland’s floods were intensified by atmospheric rivers, while economists warn neglected infrastructure is leaving homes exposed.
Policy change, fuel resilience and green power projects are set to dominate infrastructure again as reform timelines tighten in 2023.
Public health risks from contaminated drinking water remain at the heart of the reforms, as debate over local control overshadows safety.
Critics say the overhaul could add bureaucracy and legal uncertainty, raising doubts it will ease New Zealand’s housing crisis.
Councils could get a simpler path to fund water upgrades after the mayors’ plan was backed as a more practical alternative to Three Waters.
Communities could face stronger local democracy and more equitable funding as a draft review seeks submissions on council reforms.
Passengers across New Zealand will eventually tap cards and mobile wallets on buses, trains and ferries, but the rollout is not due until 2026.
Most New Zealanders want flood-risk homes disclosed, as a survey warns opaque climate messaging could damage trust across property markets.