Wellington super city a gradual necessity, says mayor
By Tim O?Connell
With Auckland on the verge of a seven city merge, the idea of the capital following suit is one that appeals to our local authorities-but all in good time. While Auckland ratepayers wrestle with the concept of being governed by a single local authority, closer to home the idea of Wellington following suit is being considered favourably. The proposed amalgamation in New Zealand?s most concentrated urban area will bring together seven councils around the Auckland region-providing local governance for 1.4 million people. While Auckland Mayor John Banks is highly supportive of the idea, his North Shore and Manukau counterparts have shown less enthusiasm for the idea. According to Wellington Mayor Kerry Prendergast, the concept of an amalgamation between the four city councils within the Greater Wellington region is ?inevitable?. As Vice President of Local Government New Zealand, Ms Prendergast said that council amalgamation would be a sensible move for the development of the capital. The concept of a super city was something that was being seen more and more internationally, and would be in line with the more regionally focussed nature of local council, she says. However, Ms Prendergast is quick to point out that any possible merger would be a gradual process rather than an instant changing of the guard. ?The question needs to be asked-is there a short term need for this?? The Wellington Mayor says the idea has been discussed with her counterparts in Porirua, Hutt City and Upper Hutt at various regional meetings. ?It?s best we think hard about it-either we work together towards this, or we may be broadsided into it in the future.? The first step in the amalgamation would probably involve combining the two Hutt councils, she said. Ms Prendergast says that she will be interested to see the results of the Royal Commission report in March, after which the wheels may be put into motion for a new era in local governance.
