Tauranga, the fifth largest city in New Zealand, will hold local elections in July after four years without a council. The city, home to 160,000 people and known for its beautiful coastline, has been under the control of four commissioners since the end of 2020. The commissioners were appointed by then-local government minister Nanaia Mahuta to manage the city’s council, which was struggling to function effectively.
The rapid growth of Tauranga has put a strain on its infrastructure. As the city prepares for the return of an elected leadership, many residents express their readiness for change. They hope that the new leaders will bring a fresh perspective and be more in touch with the city’s needs.
The commissioners were initially supposed to serve for two years, but their term was extended, a decision that drew criticism. Despite this, commission chair Anne Tolley believes that the city is in a better state now than when they took over. She cites poor maintenance and lack of investment as some of the issues they had to tackle.
Residents have mixed views about the commissioners’ performance. Some praise their efforts, while others are concerned about the city’s increasing rates and debts. Key issues for the upcoming elections include transportation and infrastructure development.
Local business owners are anxious about the upcoming changes. They hope that the new council will collaborate with the community and continue the work started by the commissioners. Nominations for candidates open on 26 April and close at 12pm on 24 May.
