New Zealand's local government is responsible for providing essential services and facilities to communities. It operates at two main levels: regional councils and territorial authorities. Regional councils manage resources like water and land, while territorial authorities handle local services such as waste management, parks, and community facilities. Local governments are elected by residents, ensuring that communities have a say in decision-making. They are funded through rates, which are taxes based on property value, and government grants. This structure allows for tailored services that meet the unique needs of each community across New Zealand.