Let Wellington ratepayers decide amalgamation

Any proposal to amalgamate Wellington’s councils must be put to a binding referendum, says the Taxpayers’ Union, following comments from Upper Hutt Mayor Peri Zee that her council is likely to oppose amalgamation.

Taxpayers' Union spokesman Josh Van Veen said:

“It is encouraging to see councils openly debating amalgamation rather than rushing into another top-down restructuring. But the decision cannot be left to mayors, councillors or officials.”

“Whether councils support amalgamation or oppose it, the people who pay the bill must have the final say. Reform on this scale should only proceed with the clear backing of ratepayers through a binding referendum.”