Hutchison voices local concerns

National MP Dr Paul Hutchison is helping organise public meetings in his Hunua electorate where there are fears that the rural voice will be overwhelmed by city slickers under the Auckland super-city model.

Dr Hutchison said constituents were reasonably accepting of a super city, but concerned the large rural local councils of Hunua and Rodney would have just one voice each on the 24-strong Auckland Council.

The Royal Commission on Auckland Governance has recommended a super city of 23 councillors and mayor, including eight from four urban wards, two from two rural wards, 10 elected at large and three Maori seats. Concerns have been raised that the 10 councillors at large will be dominated by celebrities and wealthy city candidates.

The Hunua meetings will be held at the Pukekohe Town Hall tomorrow at 7.30pm and Te Puru Hall near Beachlands on Friday at 7pm.

Manukau Mayor Len Brown is holding public meetings on the royal commission at Papatoetoe Town Hall on Monday at 5.30pm, Bucklands Beach Yacht Club on April 8 at 7pm and Manukau's Pacific Events Centre on April 9 at 6pm.

Public watchdogs Penny Bright and Lisa Prager are holding a public meeting at the Trades Hall in Grey Lynn on April 8 at 7.30pm.

Local Government Minister Rodney Hide is meeting New Zealand Communities' Board chairman and Devonport community board chairman Mike Cohen today to discuss concerns about local democracy.