Government intervention at Wellington City Council is looking more likely.
The Prime Minister, Local Government Minister and Finance Minister have all made comments to media in recent days indicating the government is considering its options, after the council voted last week to stop the sale of its stake in Wellington Airport.
Finance Minister Nicola Willis has described the council as a shambles, while Prime Minister Christopher Luxon confirmed the government was keeping a close eye on the council.
He said Local Government Minister Simeon Brown would say more soon.
Mr Brown is believed to be seeking advice on options and the thresholds for action, according to reports.
The upshot of the council’s airport decision is a potential doubling or tripling of its debt ceiling to $500M, and reduction in capital expenditure of up to $600M.
Media reports: Radio New Zealand; NewsTalkZB; NZ Herald