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Councils Merge or Face Government Takeover | Auckland News
Councils across the country raced against a Sunday deadline to submit merger plans—or risk having the government force decisions. Hamilton opted out, sparking anger with one councillor calling it “pimped out,” while Christchurch unanimously submitted a proposal to absorb regional functions despite looming cost warnings. Wellington’s mayor pushed for reform to tackle climate and infrastructure crises, while Taupo labeled mergers a “hostile takeover,” choosing direct talks instead. The government insists this is about efficiency—but the future of local governance hangs in the balance. Listen in…
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