23 July 2014

For immediate release

Strengthening capacity and capability to improve governance

Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) ran an in-depth master class session on governance as part of its conference at Nelson, for a large group of council managers, elected members and local government stakeholders.

Good governance is vital to the success of local governments. The sector knows that in order to deliver strong local government across New Zealand, it needs to raise our standards of governance and performance. While there are many strong performers we need to lift the bar higher.

The session covered how improved governance can be achieved through strengthened capacity and capability.

Speakers included LGNZ governance specialist Dr Brian Rhoades, MartinJenkins Director Michael Mills, FairWay Resolution Business Director Jenny Rowan, LGNZ financial specialist Philip Jones, LGNZ Principal Policy Advisor Dr Mike Reid and Institute of Directors Manager Governance Leadership Centre Simon Arcus.

The master class ran through case studies on key governance issues such as conflicts of interest, governance and management, setting council strategy and confidentiality breaches.

LGNZ President Lawrence Yule says the session, drawing on lessons learnt from recent experience, explained the critical elements of good organisational and financial governance.

“It is essential councils have an effective working relationship between elected members and administration, and a positive culture that encourages openness and accountability with a clear vision and strategic plan that is produced through a comprehensive and inclusive process owned by all parts of the council,” Mr Yule says.

“LGNZ is leading and supporting local government to improve governance and performance, through the launch of our Centre of Excellence, EquiP, in March and KnowHow workshop series on governance developed with Institute of Directors.”

The 2014 LGNZ Conference took place 20-22 July at Nelson, with more than 550 local government delegates attending to take part in master class sessions, hear presentations from high profile speakers about significant issues and opportunities facing the sector. The theme of the conference was Powering Local Economies, Building Vibrant Communities.

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