15 APRIL 2011

Mayor Ray Wallace says better outcomes for the Wellington region will be achieved with greater cooperation between Councils rather than forced amalgamation.

This is in response to Local Government Minister Rodney Hide’s cabinet paper released this week which seeks to explore options for replicating the Auckland ‘Supercity’ model in other parts of the country.

“The Auckland local government restructure was in response to public demand for change because they recognised the previous model was cumbersome and not advancing the interests of the Auckland region.

“The Wellington region is already working collaboratively and savings are being made through shared services.

“I believe there are opportunities to work together even more closely for the benefit of our region while still keeping the uniqueness of our individual cities.

“I intend to talk to my Council about having a referendum about this issue which could be part of next year’s Representation Review.

“I am very keen to find out what our community thinks of amalgamation and this could be one way of getting a clear understanding of their views,” he says.

ENDS

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