Local Body Elections 2016

Local government in NZ is broken and dying – and hardly anyone gives a toss

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If we want councils to be open, accountable and democratic, we have to overhaul the laws the govern the sector, writes Jason Krupp. Local government in Zealand is broken and dying, only it is dying so slowly that you’d hardly notice it unless you are looking, and it is a problem. That most of you … Read more

Sorry, chattering classes, but in Wellington voters are bypassing the old media gatekeepers

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Despite all the headlines bemoaning apathy over local body elections, voter turnout is on the rise in Wellington. Jeremy Baker, communications director at Wellington City Council, sticks the boot into traditional media and trumpets the council’s polarising ‘Declare Your Love’ campaign. Last week Bryce Edwards, the high-profile political commentator and academic, announced he didn’t vote … Read more