The Queenstown Lakes District Council is to be examined by the chief ombudsman, in what he says is part of a regular programme.
Peter Boshier announced in a statement this week his office would investigate the Queenstown Lakes and Marlborough district councils, and Wellington City Council, specifically looking at Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 practice and compliance.
Since 2018, Mr Boshier had completed proactive investigations into the official information practices of 18 councils.
As part of the latter process, a survey was available for anyone who had attended a public meeting, workshop or informal hearing organised by the council, or requested information from them, who had views on their openness and transparency. It was available online — surveymonkey.com/r/HYZV8DR — until November 29.
"As with all of my investigations, I will be looking for examples of good practice and areas that can be improved, including whether the leadership of each organisation has established a culture of openness, and whether staff responsible for responding to official information request have been given the right training and guidance.
"I will also look at their meeting practices, including any informal meetings and workshops where I feel they are relevant."
Mr Boshier announced he would also investigate two council-controlled organisations — Auckland Transport and Wellington Water.
