12 Jun 2010

Lobby group says super-city now down to new councillors

7:57 pm on 12 June 2010

A group that pushed for the Auckland super-city reforms says that, while the new structure looks good, there are still political risks.

Comprised of business, education and social sector leaders, the Committee for Auckland seeks more efficient local government to help lift Auckland's performance.

Chairman Sir Ron Carter says merging eight councils into one with new council-controlled agencies is a satisfactory outcome.

But he says the 20 councillors to be elected from individual wards will need to focus on what is best for the entire region.

Local Government Minister Rodney Hide says increased powers for the new mayor will provide the leadership the council needs.

The new Auckland Council comes into being on 1 November. It will replace eight existing councils.