Making Auckland GreaterAuckland Transition Agency FAQs
What is the ATA set up to do?
The ATA is charged with overseeing and organising the amalgamation of all seven territorial authorities and one regional council in Auckland by October 2010. This will involve reviewing the functions and operations of all council organisations, trusts and assets which are owned by councils. It also includes reviewing water services and transportation in the region.
What happens in October 2010?
At the local body elections in 2010, councillors and a mayor for a new Auckland Council will be elected. The current seven territorial authorities (Rodney District Council, North Shore City Council, Auckland City Council, Waitakere City Council, Manukau City Council, Papakura District Council and Franklin District Council) and one regional council (Auckland Regional Council) will be dissolved at that time. The Auckland Council will begin its work in November 2010.
Will I notice a difference in council services in November 2010?
It depends what aspect of services is referred to. Rubbish collection and water supply will be uninterrupted. Libraries will stay as they are. It is expected that planning regulations and systems will be streamlined and made more efficient. The location of service offices may change. Various regional strategies and policies that previously lacked a mandate or funding will be able to be implemented.
How will staff from the existing councils move to the Auckland Council?
Exactly how the transition from existing councils to the new arrangements will be managed will be determined by the ATA over the next year. Proceses will be developed to guide how the transition for staff will be managed.
Will current council staff be consulted on the new staffing structures?
Yes, staff will be consulted before the new design is finalised.
What will happen to existing council commitments to communities?
Where a council has given a formal commitment (of a type which would be enforceable in law) to a community or individual, this commitment will continue to be enforceable under the new structures. Where a commitment is not of a type enforceable by law, Auckland Council will be accountable to its communities for acting in a responsible and honourable way.
What will happen to current council assets?
As a general principle, all current assets and liabilities will be transferred to the new Auckland Council and decisions about current assets will be the responsibility of the Council.
Which council organisations will be reviewed in the transition process?
All council organisations will be reviewed as part of the transition process. There’s particular focus on water services, transportation, and the waterfront area of the CBD, including the ports of Auckland.
