New policy guide, to build local resilience andwellbeing, launched

A new report, launched on Monday reaffirms the vital role of local councils as stewards of public good.

Timed to coincide with the opening of nominations for local government elections, the report was led by the Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa, with contributions from more than 100 organisations and individuals working at the local level.

The guide, Policy for the Public Good: A Local Government Resource Guide, shares 100 common-sense, evidence-based policies for local councils, along with 80 real-world case studies.

The report is a call to reimagine local governance as a driver of resilience and wellbeing across Aotearoa.

“This is a practical, evidence-based resource guide,” says Gareth Hughes, Director of WEAll Aotearoa.

“Local Government is more than just roads, rates, rats and rubbish - it plays a key role in building local economies and is uniquely positioned to foster local resiliency and wellbeing in our communities.”

“We have uncovered a wealth of local success stories: from neighbourhood parks and infrastructure, to nature-based solutions and community engagement, where local government is working for the public good.”

“We are encouraging public good policies that generate and maintain wealth locally, see citizens be more involved in decision making, and infrastructure better designed to serve people, place and planet.”

Mr Hughes adds: “We recognise local government faces many challenges - not least the push to restrict its role and scope - but no one else can do the same work for the public good. That is why this guide focuses on how local government can deliver real value by rethinking how current resources are used, rather than requiring new funding.” Mr Hughes says.