This article will address the topic of Community boards in New Zealand, which has gained relevance in recent years due to its impact on different aspects of society. Different perspectives related to Community boards in New Zealand will be explored, from its origins to its influence today. The importance of understanding and analyzing Community boards in New Zealand will be examined to better understand its significance in today's world. In addition, the challenges and opportunities that Community boards in New Zealand presents will be discussed, as well as the possible solutions that arise to address the challenges it represents. In short, this article seeks to offer a broad and enriching vision of Community boards in New Zealand, with the aim of encouraging reflection and debate around this topic.
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In New Zealand, community boards are governed by the provisions of Part 4 of the Local Government Act 2002 and can be created, or dissolved by territorial authorities, 40 out of 78 of which have 111 boards. In addition Auckland has 21 local boards and some councils have community committees.
Under the Local Electoral Act 2001, boards must have at least four members but not more than twelve. At least four must be elected members, but up to half can be appointed by the council.
Their purpose is to:
Boards can have powers delegated to them by councils, but cannot own land, or employ staff.
Levels of delegation vary greatly: 25 councils (60%) give boards power to make community grants, 11 (26%) power to run parks and reserves, 10 (24%) power to run community centres and sports and recreation and, in Southland, to spend up to $300,000 on projects. In Thames-Coromandel boards have control of local harbours, parks, halls, libraries, airfields, swimming pools, toilets, cemeteries, buses, planning, grants, economic development and bylaws.