Press release – for immediate release

17 July 2007

Auckland needs less local government decision makers

The NZCF is backing a call for a shake-up of the way local government is structured in greater Auckland, saying a more streamlined system would allow crucial infrastructure projects to be more easily fast tracked.

“Getting things done in Auckland has proved very difficult in recent years because of the sheer number of organisations who have an input into the decision process, and the city has suffered as a result,” says NZCF Chief Executive Richard Michael.

“The present collection of different bodies is complete overkill for a city the size of Auckland. International experience would suggest that more efficient outcomes would result from a more streamlined structure.”

Mr Michael said while chronic Auckland roading problems are a major headache for private motorists it was Auckland businesses, and NZ Inc, that are suffering most.

“Businesses are paying the price for an overloaded infrastructure network in our largest city. This is costly for business and a disincentive to invest and live there. It is essential for the whole country that Auckland is an efficient city in which to get things done. Any persistent delays are a drag on our national economy.”

Mr Michael said the contracting industry is ready and able to build the infrastructure that Auckland needs to become a world class city.

“It is very frustrating that progress is so slow. The worst of it is that people now seem to accept 10-year delays to getting major projects underway as the norm. Obviously not all of the delays are caused by local government but the current political landscape of the city is not helping things.

“We have to act now if we are to get anything in place for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Let's cut down the number of players and start getting things done so that Auckland can be recognised internationally not only for its beauty but also for its efficiency.”

ENDS

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