Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) is calling for local democracy reporting to be expanded to all communities. 

The call comes as NZME proposes to cut 14 North Island-based community papers before Christmas. These newspapers collectively serve over 850,000 people. 

Local mayors are concerned the closures could negatively impact turnout in next year’s local body elections. 

Central Hawkes Bay Mayor and LGNZ Rural Chair tells Heather du Plessis-Allan “this is not just a local newspaper issue; this is about wider media.” 

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