Localism

The upcoming New Zealand government faces political limbo as special votes are counted, giving time to consider the alignment of the potential coalition in terms of their commitment to decentralization. The National, ACT, and New Zealand First parties emphasize localism, promising a shift of power from Wellington to local communities, contrasting with the recent centralization efforts of the outgoing government. The potential coalition’s shared focus on empowering local communities could lay a strong foundation for the new government. […]

The New Zealand Initiative has championed localism for over a decade, and these efforts have paid off. A recent poll commissioned by the Taxpayers’ Union revealed that 70% of New Zealanders support sharing new development tax revenue with local communities. This overwhelming endorsement indicates a widespread desire for greater local autonomy and signifies the mainstream acceptance of localism. […]

Nothing in my work in Germany, Britain, Australia and now New Zealand has given me reason to doubt my basic beliefs: incentives matter; councils can work effectively when given the right incentives; and decision-making removed from the people it concerns creates problems. […]

In our #localismNZ report we call for a radical shift of power from the centre to the people. […]

#localismNZ: Bringing power to the people explains the rationale behind localism and responds to commonly heard objections. […]

The chances for decentralisation have never been better. […]

Having campaigned for localism over the past six years, I am excited about the shift politics toward it. But now I want to see this great idea filled with life and practical recommendations. […]

The Regional Development (Provincial Growth) Fund puts Wellington in the driver’s seat. It is a centrally designed plan for how New Zealand should develop. […]