Understanding local government
Understanding local government: information sheets
To view the following Information Sheets you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader on your PC. You can download Acrobat Reader for free from the Adobe website.
Local Government Info Sheet (437kb). Among other things, this information sheet answers the following questions:
- What is local government and what does it do?
- What types of councils make up local government?
- How are councils formed and governed?
- What are community boards?
- What powers do local authorities have?
- Why does a council make local bylaws?
- How is local government funded?
- How are council decisions made?
- How can I participate in local government?
- Who can vote and stand for election?
Local government info sheet for youth (472kb). This information sheet provides the same information as the previous, but with an introduction intended for a more youthful audience.
Participate in local elections. (393kb). It is important that Māori are better represented in all areas of local government. This information sheet provides more detail on things to consider when standing for or voting in the local elections.
Public knowledge about local government (pdf 286kb). A survey conducted of residents across New Zealand, asking what councils do for their communities and the level of public engagement with councils. To view this document you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader on your PC. You can download Acrobat Reader for free from the Adobe website.
