Tensions between Wellington’s councils and the Government are escalating after Prime Minister Christopher Luxon slammed local leaders for failing to submit a proposal for infrastructure funding.
Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau and regional council chair Daran Ponter defended the decision, arguing that the Government’s own Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) understood the region’s current focus on water reform and did not expect a submission at this stage. Whanau criticised Luxon’s comments, saying ministers should “walk back those comments and stop punching down on Wellington City.”
However, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop stood by the Government’s stance, calling the councils’ failure to apply “embarrassing.” Labour leader Chris Hipkins also weighed in, urging local leaders to “get their act together.”
Wellington Regional Leadership Committee deputy chair Daran Ponter said the region was instead working on a more detailed and strategic proposal, rather than rushing to submit under the Government’s current funding round.
Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy said councils had initially agreed on a joint approach but struggled to prioritise projects, leading to delays.
As Wellington continues to grapple with infrastructure and transport challenges, this growing divide between local councils and the Government raises concerns over future funding and regional development.