Local Government Minister Nick Smith has been working up a case over the past few weeks to undermine local government in New Zealand, but a leaked document obtained by Labour shows his campaign is based on bodgie figures, says Labour’s Local Government spokesperson Annette King.

“Nick Smith has clearly got an agenda to bring about major changes in local government,” Annette King said.

“He has refused to explain exactly what that agenda is, but the document (attached) shows that his agenda, whatever it is, is based on misleading figures.”

Annette King said the document had been sent to Labour from a local government source and she understood it had been sent to all Mayors.

“The information clearly discredits the figures Nick Smith has been bandying around for several weeks now,” Annette King said.