1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 The New Zealand Initiative welcomes the opportunity to submit on the Better Regional Boundaries Bill.

1.2 The Initiative is a Wellington based think tank supported primarily by major New Zealand businesses. In combination, our members employ more than 150,000 people. We undertake research that contributes to the development of sound public policies in New Zealand, and we advocate for the creation of a competitive, open and dynamic economy, as well as a free, prosperous, fair and cohesive society.

1.3 An effective public sector and a healthy relationship between central and local government matter to our members and to the communities in which they operate. The views expressed in this submission are those of the author rather than those of the New Zealand Initiative's members.

1.4 The Initiative has long argued that New Zealand is unusually centralised and that citizens and communities are better served when government is organised around the places it serves. Our work on localism has made the case for clearer responsibilities, stronger local accountability and a more responsive public sector.

1.5 Tim Costley’s Members’ Bill identifies a real problem, which were well canvassed in the First Reading debate and highlighted in section 2 below. However, the Bill also has some problems, which are set out in section 3.

1.6 Section 4 notes that much of what the Bill seeks could be achieved administratively by directions from Ministers or Cabinet or from guidance issued by the Public Service Commissioner, rather than by statute. The Initiative submits that the Committee should make a strong recommendation in its report to that effect and request the government to report back with its response.

1.7 However, if the Committee prefers a statutory approach, several changes to the Bill would be necessary. These are also discussed in section 4.