Shane Jones claims regional councils are stifling economic growth

Wednesday 26 November 2025 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Wed 26 Nov 2025, 8:52am

In this story NZ First, Shane Jones

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says the current regional council structure hinders economic growth through cost burdens and green overreach. He specifically criticised councils in Otago, suggesting they have too much influence from iwi. This follows a government announcement to scrap regional councillors in favour of mayor-led combined authorities.

How they headlined it

8:35am

1. RNZWed 26 Nov 2025, 8:35am

   Minister Shane Jones says 'green banshees' in regional council are stifling growth (opens in new tab)

2. Otago Daily TimesWed 26 Nov 2025, 8:52am

   Otago councils captured by 'green banshees': Jones (opens in new tab)