A pattern of behaviour and decision-making is demonstrated across many deals spread throughout the city.

Special interest groups, in the form of business lobbies, are threatening to undermine and subvert our local democracy.

This website is a platform where we can compile details about these deals within a broader context.

Our Independence 

Tauranga City Council Exposed – Facts Matter is a community-led, independent initiative. We have no affiliation with any central government political party or organisation. Our sole focus is transparency, accountability, and truth in local governance.

Appendix: Governing Law & Councillor Conduct

1. Local Government Act 2002 – Key Sections

Section 40 – Local Governance Statements

Councillors must ensure that the Council has proper governance statements and

accountability systems.

(This establishes your duty to uphold transparency and oversight.)

Section 42 – Chief Executive Obligations

Outlines the CE’s responsibilities: implementing decisions, advising elected members,

managing delegated responsibilities, ensuring efficiency, and maintaining accurate

performance systems.

(Councillors must ensure the CE is fulfilling these functions.)

Section 44 – Personal Liability

Councillors may be personally liable for losses arising from unlawful actions, negligence, or

failure to perform duties if they knowingly allow such actions to continue.

(This is a direct warning: ignoring these issues may expose you to personal legal risk.)

tauranga.govt.nz+1 (copy & paste this into a new page on your browser for the full 26 page page document on TCC Code of Conduct)

2. Tauranga City Council – Councillor Code of Conduct

The Councils Code of Conduct, adopted under Schedule 7 of the LGA, establishes expected

standards of behaviour for councillors while acting in their roles. These include:

 Public trust & integrity

Councillors must act with honesty, courtesy, and respect, maintaining the credibility

and accountability of Council.

 Duty to uphold the law

Councillors must comply with all legislative requirements (including LGA, LGOIMA)

and act in accordance with their official oath.

 Objectivity & fairness

Decisions must be made on merit—no bias, no undue advantage given or sought.

 Transparency & respectful engagement

Councillors must conduct Council business openly and respectfully, with the public

and with each other.