Council funding tools generally fit for purpose, Treasury says

Council funding tools generally fit for purpose, Treasury says
Local authorities face a backlog of maintenance and renewals spending. (Image: Getty)
Oliver Lewis
Treasury believes the existing funding and financing tools available to councils are generally fit for purpose, they’re just not being used to their fullest extent. The local government sector has consistently called for a broader suite of tools, with some leaders arguing the current system is broken and overly reliant on rates.Earlier this year, sector group Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) said homeowners were facing average rates rises of 15%, according to the draft long-term plans of 48 councils. The double-digit hike is...

More Policy

Digital Investment Plan expected this month
Policy

Digital Investment Plan expected this month

Health NZ to release its 10-year Digital Investment Plan in Christchurch.

Cécile Meier 14 Nov 2025
KiwiSaver providers want more out of retirement reform
Policy

KiwiSaver providers want more out of retirement reform

The Retirement Commissioner says KiwiSaver does not work equally well for everyone.

Emissions impacts of NZ's largest companies under microscope
Policy

Emissions impacts of NZ's largest companies under microscope

Nearly half of NZ's biggest companies increased their emissions last year.

Michael Neilson 13 Nov 2025
Electricity Authority launches review as questions linger
Policy Analysis

Electricity Authority launches review as questions linger

The review has been described as a ‘rare opportunity for genuine transformation’. 

Ian Llewellyn 10 Nov 2025