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Citizens in society
The system of local government we have in our country, which has grown out of experience, precedent and legislation - some of that quite recent - is intended to meet the needs and expectations of New Zealanders in the early years of the 21st century. In some respects it is quite different from the systems of only 30 or 40 years ago, let alone100.
Most communities develop some sort of management structure and look for leadership, and this is true of both townships - which may grow into cities - and country districts. Over time, as patterns of agriculture or industry change, as transport and communications develop, as internal migration shifts the balance of population, or people with different ethnic or cultural backgrounds (and expectations) arrive, as new pressures are experienced or challenges emerge, changes will be called for. New Zealand has seen plenty of examples.
Changes over time
Auckland had its first mayor in 1851, elected by the members of the so-called Common Council. Today 'Auckland' is four cities and three districts, with a regional council as well - and residents and visitors representing a vastly wider range of cultures. And the changes we see there reflect developments overseas, new technologies and patterns of trade and travel, almost as much as they do developments here in New Zealand. With today's communications, people in one place know pretty well what is being done elsewhere, and they want the best.
Stratford residents meet to discuss their local body issues.
In practice, this generally means that the roles and responsibilities of mayors and councillors change more, and change more quickly, than do the formal structures of the council or the national legislation under which it operates. With progress and prosperity come subtle changes in relationships. New initiatives, unexpected difficulties, call for prompt responses by people on the spot, new priorities and perhaps some reallocation of resources. That is what politics is all about, local politics as well as national.
Local decision-making
New Zealand will grow. There will always be new problems to be dealt with, new opportunities to seize. Meanwhile, however, the system suits us pretty well. It is distinctive; it may be unique. It might not suit others. The overall legislation - which is the responsibility of Parliament - enables communities to better manage their own affairs. It is not just 'laying down the law'. Devolution of responsibility, and partnership, are key words.
It is residents themselves who know what facilities are inadequate or unsatisfactory, what choices are denied them. They understand local issues, probably better than they do many of the issues central government struggles with. They want their city or district to work better. This really is democracy in action.
Great diversity
Not all of our cities, towns and districts have the same problems, of course. Even in a small country there can be great diversity. Though people may say two places are facing the same problem, for their own reasons they may well give it quite different priorities.
Some will have more institutions to deal with than others, such as those having responsibility for international trade and travel, for the natural environment, energy and water supplies, for major health programmes, and various lobby groups both national and international. The complexities can go on and on. There may be difficulties caused by overlapping jurisdictions and multiple lines of accountability.
For their part, therefore, citizens should understand their responsibilities, know what is meant by the term 'good citizen', and insist on high standards of governance. They should be prepared to take the time to keep themselves informed of what is going on. They should discuss the issues with others and consider what solutions would contribute most to the general good. They should be ready to express opinions and, come election time, to vote.