Public Health (Wellbeing) in New Zealand: Interface with Local GovernmentDate of publication (online): October 2009
Summary of publication
The purpose of this document is to highlight good practice that is occurring in the sector. By encouraging more effective working relationships between health and local government agencies, it should develop more efficient action at a local and regional level to support people adopting healthier lifestyles.
Role of local authorities and other organisations in community wellbeing
Local authorities frequently both undertake activities influencing public health and wellbeing and facilitate or support similar activities done by others. These roles vary among local authorities and the roles of regional councils and territorial authorities are likely to differ in most cases.
Local government has core responsibilities in some activities that are discussed in section 2. In other areas local authorities may have picked up roles as leaders, supporters, communicators or facilitators because of their local strengths and abilities to link to other people and projects. They often work in partnership with health agencies, other government and non-government organisations, business leaders and the community.
Organisations working in the community may have similar aims or be able to use their tools or networks to complement each other’s aims. Activity to promote outcomes in one area of wellbeing often has flow-on effects in other areas of wellbeing. Bringing together difference skill sets and perspectives can also help strengthen planning. Support for joint work can provide opportunities to support other work, identify potential tensions, make better use of resources and improve community outcomes across more than one area.
Local authorities and their communities have varying strengths, community outcomes and priorities. They also have differing roles and activities. However, local authorities can directly consider demographic diversity and cultural influences and establish relationships with iwi/Māori, ethnic and age-based groups, community and business groups, and other influencers in their community.
Related information
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Publishing information
Date of publication: October 2009
ISBN number: 978-0-478-31825-8 (Online)
HP number: 4670
Citation: Ministry of Health. 2009. Public Health (Wellbeing) in New Zealand: Interface with Local Government. Wellington: Ministry of Health.
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