Poll: Auckland's super-city: One decade on: Is local government running more efficiently?
It's been 10 years since Auckland's new super-city was formed, forged from eight legacy councils.
For Aucklanders who have lived through the massive overhaul, do you think local government is running more smoothly?
Auckland Council's first year was far from smooth with the Occupy protest, the Rugby World Cup opening night transport debacle, a battle with central government over funding the inner-city rail loop, and a contest of wills over delegating powers to local boards and council-controlled organisations.
Auckland's inaugural super mayor Len Brown hailed it a success.
"Generally 2011 has been a good first year for the council, " Brown said in 2012.
"We've brought the region together... At the same time we have driven $81 million in efficiencies and reduced the inherited 9.3 per cent rates increase down to 3.9 per cent."
The boundaries of the new super city were unveiled in 2010.
Super city Auckland was divided into 13 wards with 21 local boards.
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7.1% Yes
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92.9% No
Some Choice News!
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.
Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?
Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!
The gift of giving …?
The author of “The Gift of the Magi” is O. Henry, a pseudonym for William Sydney Porter.
“The Gift of the Magi” is a poignant short story about a young couple, Jim and Della, who are deeply in love but financially struggling. With Christmas approaching and limited money, each decides to sacrifice their most prized possession to buy a meaningful gift for the other. Della sells her beautiful long hair to buy a platinum chain for Jim’s watch, while Jim sells his grandfather’s watch to buy a set of combs for Della’s hair. In the end, their love and sacrifice underscore the true spirit of giving during the holiday season.
🤔
I would say the story underscores the stupidity of Xmas gifts … after all, it is not YOUR birthday, so how about donating something to good causes and otherwise enjoying being together?
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