In October 2007, a Royal Commission was established by the government to make recommendations on Auckland's governance arrangements. Following receipt of the Royal Commission report, the government released its decisions on Auckland's governance arrangements in April 2009.
The key decisions include one unitary Auckland Council since implemented by legislation, and propose approximately 20 to 30 local boards across the region, one mayor for Auckland elected at large by the region's residents and ratepayers, and 20 councillors to sit on the Auckland Council (eight elected at large and 12 elected from wards). The new structure will be in place for the 2010 local government elections.
The Auckland Transition Agency will pave the way for establishing the new council. Our priority over the next 16 months is to remain focused on providing day-to-day services and to continue to improve our customer service. Another priority is to deliver on projects contained in this plan that we said we would do in 2009/2010.
Preparing a 10-year plan every three years is essential as it enables us to plan for the coming year and the longer term, and set the rates accordingly. Our 10-year plan, and the budgets and financial information within it, will be invaluable information for the new Auckland Council and help it form a single 10-year plan for the region.
» Find out about Auckland regional governance
