The Department of Internal Affairs (the Department) has raised concerns and engaged with the Westland District Council over a number of months and specifically regarding the findings of the Office of the Auditor General’s report (the report).

The report found “numerous examples of poor decision-making and poor procurement practice” by Westland District Council in relation to Franz Josef.

Due to the ongoing issues at Westland District Council, the Department has recommended that the Minister of Local Government exercise her powers of intervention under part 10 of the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act). Information on this process can be found at www.dia.govt.nz/Proactive-Releases#LG.

As a result, on 20 March 2019, the Minister of Local Government, Hon Nanaia Mahuta, sent a letter to Westland District Council’s Chief Executive, Simon Bastion, requesting further information about its procurement policies and processes.

A response to the Minister’s request for further information is due by 31 May 2019.

Following consideration of the information required from the Council and advice from the Department, Minister Mahuta will consider whether more formal steps need to be taken to ensure her confidence in the adequacy of the Westland District Council’s procurement policies and processes.

The Department will continue to engage with Westland District Council as necessary.

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