"Supporting and promoting the role local bodies play in enabling economic development is behind BERL’s support of this year’s Local Government New Zealand Conference", says BERL General Manager Amanda Lynn.

Conference 2010 explores the theme ‘Building Prosperous Places.’ The conference website is now live on http://lgnz.co.nz/events/conference/index.html

Ms Lynn says the conference theme is a good fit with the work BERL does in the sector. “The LGNZ Conference is a good opportunity for us to talk to those who matter most in the cities, regions and provinces about how we can support and facilitate regional and national economic development.  We understand economic development is a partnership between the public and private sectors and are very keen to be involved in this space,” she said.

Ms Lynn says 2010 is a watershed year for councils with the election and the creation of the Auckland super city.  “Conference 2010 has a very strong range of international commentators on economic development, infrastructure and branding. We are very much looking forward to being involved and associated with the event.”

Local Government New Zealand President Lawrence Yule says he expects interest to be very high this year.  “A great location, international speakers and the upcoming elections combine to create the perfect storm in terms of interest in local body elections. I’m confident it’s going to be a memorable event. “

The Local Government New Zealand Conference will be held from July 25 to 27 at the Sky City Convention Centre in Auckland.  For more information about the conference go to http://lgnz.co.nz/events/conference/index.html or contact info@lgnz.co.nz. Registration will be live from April.