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Building stronger local places
for a stronger New Zealand
Next Generation Local brings people together to redefine how we govern our regions, ensuring every community has the tools to thrive through simple, effective local leadership.
The Next Generation Local Founding Paper
Drawing on national and international experience, the paper below explores how New Zealand can create a system of governance that is:
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more responsive to communities
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better aligned with economic growth and wellbeing
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focused on outcomes rather than process
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built on collaboration between local government, central government, iwi, business and communities
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designed to strengthen local democracy while improving performance and accountability.
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The paper is intended to stimulate discussion, encourage fresh thinking and provide practical ideas that can support the goals of Government whilst enabling Local Government to contribute to the next generation model of local governance.
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The Next Generation Local Charter
A Partnership CharterÂ
Trust and mutual respect are central to any relationship. Again drawing on many (20 plus) international examples of partnership agreements between layers of government, we can see that the principles of trust and mutual respect have in many countries been enshrined in formal Charters or Accords between central and local government.Â
Such a Charter in NZ would provide a common foundation for those who wish to support reform that is collaborative, evidence-based and focused on delivering better outcomes for local government and communities.Â
The Charter below is an example of the principles that exist in most international examples of Partnership Charters along with additional principles that are exemplars of best practice, for example, a process for managing conflict.Â
The above Charter is not intended to be the final word. It is the beginning of a wider conversation.
We welcome constructive ideas, informed debate and new perspectives from everyone with an interest in the future of New Zealand's local government and the communities they serve.
As the Community Charter is developed, we invite you to read the "Place Matters" paper linked below that outlines why we need your support so share your feedback and become part of a growing network committed to practical reform and better outcomes for every place across New Zealand.
Help Shape the Future
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