Mayors support returning GST charged on rates to councils

Mayors support returning GST charged on rates to councils
Mayors like Auckland's Phil Goff and Wellington's Andy Foster support the idea of central government returning GST on rates to councils. (Image: Auckland Council)
Oliver Lewis
Councils around New Zealand are struggling to raise the revenue needed to pay for services, maintenance and new infrastructure, leading to calls for new funding tools. Outgoing Queenstown mayor Jim Boult is pessimistic about the sustainability of the sector and hopes the future of local government review, which is set to return draft recommendations after the October elections, will lead to wholesale change. “I just think the whole local authority model needs to be revisited,” he said. “It’s very close to being...

More Policy

‘Bluewater backbone’: Lyttelton, Auckland ports plan $1b+ of upgrades
Policy

‘Bluewater backbone’: Lyttelton, Auckland ports plan $1b+ of upgrades

Two of the biggest NZ ports are raising prices as they plan major investments.

'There are some firms in NZ I won’t touch'
Policy

'There are some firms in NZ I won’t touch'

Adam Feeley on the reluctance to call out poor performers in NZ infrastructure sector.

Oliver Lewis 30 Jun 2025
Govt mandates high-rise zoning around key CRL stations
Policy

Govt mandates high-rise zoning around key CRL stations

Auckland Council will need to provide for building heights of at least 10-15 storeys.

Oliver Lewis 25 Jun 2025
Infrastructure Plan floats higher health, electricity spend
Policy

Infrastructure Plan floats higher health, electricity spend

Draft plan identifies priority projects and recommends transport system reform.

Oliver Lewis 25 Jun 2025