Our system of local government is in a state of change. Much of this is long overdue, and there is likely to be more change after the Review into the Future for Local Government makes its final report next year, but there will always be local democracy, and our democratic systems must always be fit for purpose. Department of Internal Affairs officials have engaged Local Government New Zealand, Taituarā, Auckland Council officials, Local Government Commission officials, and council chief executives on the workability of this bill. I'd like to thank these organisations for their assistance to make sure the proposals in the bill will work well. 