North Shore City media release

North Shore gathers local feeling for regional future

March 28, 2008

North Shore City is continuing to canvass its residents and special interest groups as it helps shape its submission to the Royal Commission on Governance.

The Commission is charged with reviewing the structure and governance of the Auckland region, and it is gathering submissions from each of the local authorities and from individuals, and will report by December this year.

North Shore City has led a series of meetings over the past month, the last (Wednesday) with North Shore mana whenua as well as those from nearby districts.

North Shore City Mayor Andrew Williams says the city values the very strong partnership that has developed over many years with local mana whenua, and has welcomed Maori involvement with so many aspects of the Shore’s life

“With our local mana whenua’s love and respect for the land we have been very mindful of the need to care for the land and environment, and together we are proud of the work that has been done in wastewater treatment systems and the environment in general. Together we have made a major contribution to the care of our streams and beaches, particularly through Project Care.

“Today’s hui was a continuation of that relationship, and provided an opportunity to build on many aspects of governance both locally and across the region. We are well aware of the impacts and the ramifications of changes in the political and local governance map for this vitally important region. This meeting strengthened that relationship.”

North Shore City’s Maori engagement advisor, Mihiwira Tawhai, says the hui had a positive outcome with both the council and mana whenua keen to have the opportunity to work together.

“Mana whenua will develop their submission that will be submitted alongside North Shore City Council’s,” she says.

Mayor Williams says the iwi and kaumatua will take the discussions back to their own people and a further meeting next week will help shape North Shore City’s submission to the Local Government Commission.

The Mayor has again urged individuals to make their submissions directly to the Royal Commission. More information is available on www.royalcommission.govt.nz.

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