Aucklanders invited to make submissions

Aucklanders invited to make submissions
5 March 2008
Source: Royal Commission on Auckland Governance

The Royal Commission on Auckland Governance is calling for submissions on the much-debated topic of Auckland’s local and regional government.

"We hope to get submissions from a wide range of residents and organisations of the greater Auckland region," says Commission Chair, Peter Salmon QC. "This is an opportunity for people to contribute to an inquiry that helps Auckland become an internationally competitive, world-class city."

The Commission has just released a discussion document, "Call for Submissions", which outlines the major issues they will be investigating, gives background information on Auckland’s current governance arrangements, and explains how to make a submission. This document is available at local councils and public libraries from March 7, and can also be downloaded from the Royal Commission website, www.royalcommission.govt.nz.

The Commission was set up by the Government last year, and consists of three Commissioners, Chair Hon Peter Salmon QC, Dame Margaret Bazley, and David Shand. They have a year to consult with interest groups, conduct hearings, review submissions, and write a report with recommendations to the Governor-General by Dec 1st, 2008.

"The Commission’s aim is to recommend a form of local body governance which will serve Auckland well now, and for the next 50 years", said Mr Salmon. "This means thinking carefully about what the future holds for Auckland, and the best way the region can be governed to ensure that Auckland thrives. And if Auckland thrives, New Zealand thrives."

Submissions are welcome from any person or organisation in New Zealand. Details on how to make a submission are on the Commission’s website and in the Call for Submissions document. Submissions close on 22 April 2008.

www.royalcommission.govt.nz.