Panel appointed for council review

The four-person panel set to investigate the best structure for the future governance of Wellington councils was announced on Wednesday.

The panel has been organised by Porirua City Council and Greater Wellington Regional Council, although other councils in the Wellington region were invited to take part.

The three Wairarapa councils declined as they were already undertaking their own study on options for future governance, but previously said they were happy to share their findings.

The terms of reference that the panel are to investigate were also finalised by the councils on Wednesday.

The panel consists of Sir Geoffrey Palmer, Sue Driver, Sir Wira Gardiner, and Bryan Jackson.

Porirua Mayor Nick Leggett and Greater Wellington Regional Council chair Fran Wilde said the decisions made by both councils were an important part of starting what will be significant discussions with the Wellington region's communities about local government arrangements.

"This process is not just about structures, although a recommendation from the panel about a preferred structure will be an outcome," said Mr Leggett.

Ms Wilde said they were fortunate to be able to secure the services of four outstandingly well qualified New Zealanders to complete the review.

The panel has till the end of October to deliver the two councils a report recommending what they conclude is an appropriate set of organisational arrangements for local government in the region.