September 2024

This quarter’s big spike in discussion surrounded Hastings District Council and its decision to fluoridate water. More recently the group opposing the fluoridation was ordered to pay 41K in legal costs to the council. The opposing group has, however, seen success on social media with its campaign.

The Interislander ferry running aground caused another spike in discussion, with most suggesting there had been underinvestment in the ferry service. The negative impact on the regions immediately served by the ferry was front of mind.

The top news story was from RNZ: Government to ‘flood’ cities with more housing by liberalising planning rules. This highlighted controversial reforms that will remove council powers over urban boundaries and development standards.

Tension between central government and local government is evident. The speed limit changes from the government have been a source of conflict for local boards and councils. The new bill requiring a referendum on all Māori wards by 2025 has also caused some concern. Many are surprised the government wants to take such an active role in policy relating to local government, when one of their planks in the election had been returning local control on issues like water.

The information presented here provides a holistic view of public perceptions by combining data from a nationally representative sample of New Zealanders with social media trend analysis.

If you would like to unpack this more, get in touch with Liz Morley liz@researchfirst.co.nz