Like many people I expect, my financial situation can become problematic in three principal ways; one – as an individual; two – through Central Government actions and three – through Council actions.
As an individual debt problems come down to my spending too much. A long term challenge but manageable.
Central Government struggles especially after the 10 years of Socialism with its ‘unfunded' promises. But Government at least seems more aware of it now.
With Local and Regional Councils however it is very different. They have a deep culture of over spending. Some of the causes stem from the Power of General Competence sadly coinciding with the fashion of environmentalism.
Other causes come from people being enamoured with the heady thrill of spending Other People's Money with little or no comeback.
Councils everywhere, not just here, can be regarded like drug addicts or alcoholics. They just must have their next fix or dose of additional money. Rate increases, charges, fees, salaries, you get the idea.
This deep culture of addiction must be broken. When it is, Councils will find ways to manage on what they have already, as I do.
But the addiction must be smashed, before bankruptcy.

Stuart V Peat, Katikati.