Efficiency, Rates, and Representation in New Zealand. Volume One - Is Bigger Better?

This is the summary volume of a study into the likely economic and representation impacts of council mergers proposed to proceed in 2027 in New Zealand. The study considers the evidence for economic and funding benefits from such a reform programme based on comparative analysis of the performance of all New Zealand councils in 2025/26 (Volume Two) and a review of the impacts of the merger of eight councils to form a single Auckland Council in 2010 (Volume Three). The evidence summarised raises questions about the democratic costs of the initiative and the uncertainty over any economic or fiscal dividend.