Transforming Auckland: The Creation of Auckland Council

LexisNexis announces book release of Transforming Auckland: The Creation of Auckland Council written by Mai Chen

AUCKLAND, 1 May, 2014 –LexisNexis, a leading provider of content and technology solutions today launched Transforming Auckland: The Creation of Auckland Council by Mai Chen, author of Public Law Toolbox and founding partner of Chen Palmer.

This book offers a unique insight from those involved in the amalgamation process of how the former Auckland District Councils and Auckland Regional Council have been transformed into one combined Auckland Council.

Most importantly, for the professionals working with the Council, this insight and the behind the scenes account of the Council’s creation, provides the necessary explanation as to how Auckland Council now works - in a way that cannot be found elsewhere.

“Mai provides invaluable knowledge to the reader on the why’s and how’s surrounding the transformation.

This is critical for anyone whose work relies on efficient and effective council interaction,” said Rachel Travers, Executive Director of LexisNexis New Zealand.

Interviews were conducted with a wide range of people involved in the development of Auckland Council, from the Royal Commission into Auckland Governance, to Cabinet decision-making, the drafting the legislation, and the Auckland Transition Agency (ATA).

“What you will read here is a ‘warts and all’ review by the key people at the heart of this incredible change. Their honest reflections on the successes achieved and the work still to be done are both refreshing and sobering,” said Doug McKay, Inaugural Chief Executive of the Auckland Council.

One of New Zealand’s most powerful representative bodies, Auckland Council is now well into its second term and its success has ignited amalgamation discussions across the country, and has sparked interest internationally.

Mai Chen said, “It is hoped that as a result of reading this book, Aucklanders will be better able to participate in their local democracy and for the book to act as a guide for professional advisors and other local authorities considering reorganization in New Zealand and overseas”.

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