Local Government Minister Simon Watts denies any money's been wasted, as the Government delays decisions on council amalgamations.

Earlier this year, Cabinet gave councils a three month period to come up with proposals - or risk having the decision made for them. 

Many councils rushed to form plans, but Watts today confirmed decisions will come after the election, leading to anger from some mayors. 

He says councils' work is still valuable. 

"I don't think any of that effort, to date, is wasted - it's all an investment to move forward. At the end of the day, the decision for them to spend money on consultants is their decision." 

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