While the central government deals with issues relevant to New Zealand and its people as a nation, local government exists "to enable democratic local decision-making and action by, and on behalf of, communities", and "to meet the current and future needs of communities for good-quality local infrastructure, local public services, and performance of regulatory functions in a way that is most cost-effective for households and businesses."
While the central government addresses matters relevant to New Zealand and its people, local government exists "to facilitate democratic local governance and action by, and on behalf of, communities", and "to satisfy the current and future needs of communities for quality local infrastructure, public services, and regulatory activities in a cost-effective way."