Councils across the Wellington metropolitan region are advancing plans to transfer billions of dollars’ worth of water supply, wastewater, and stormwater assets to a new corporate entity—temporarily named Metro Water. Once established, Metro Water will take over responsibility for delivering water services across the region.

Hutt City Council has approved a plan that will sharply increase rates—placing an unsustainable burden on many households.

Few local issues have stirred as much debate recently as paid parking in Petone and fee increases city-wide. I share the frustration and voted against introducing the new parking meters and several other fee hikes. Here's why I believe the timing and approach were wrong.