Local government
A subordinate position
Local government in New Zealand is independent of, but subordinate to, central government. Local government gives consents under the Resource Management Act for different activities. The boundaries of local authorities are defined by the Local Government Commission.
Territorial local authorities
There are 76 city (mainly urban) or district (rural, or both rural and urban) councils. Some local matters are handled by 147 community boards, which are independently elected. They are funded by and report to a city or district council. City and district councils provide a wide range of services, from public libraries to waste-water treatment.
Regional councils
Sixteen regional councils have responsibility for the environment and public transport. Regions can embrace several cities or districts. Four councils are ‘unitary authorities’ – a single elected council acts as both regional and city or district council.
Local elections
City, district and regional councils and community boards are elected at triennial local elections. The mayors of cities and districts are directly elected.
Local taxes
City, district and regional councils have the power to levy rates (taxes on land and buildings) to fund their activities.
