Mathew NashLocal Democracy Reporter, Rotorua·Rotorua Daily Post·10 Jun, 2026 06:00 PM5 mins to read‌Rotorua Lakes Council is seeking clarification about how the Local Government (System Improvements) Bill will affect voting rights on committees. Photo / Laura SmthThe Government’s plan to prevent unelected people voting on council committees has reignited a debate over who influences decision-making at Rotorua Lakes Council.

Local Government Minister Simon Watts last week announced plans to amend the Local Government (System Improvements) Bill, currently before Parliament, to deny voting rights to unelected appointees