The Goffice reined in

Stuff reports:

Auckland mayor Phil Goff’s office has been stripped of its ability to influence the release of information following an investigation by the Chief Ombudsman.

Ombudsman Peter Boshier found the council had acted unreasonably, and in some respects unlawfully, in withholding for five months a report sought by RNZ. …

The council’s governance director said three changes had already been made as a result of the Ombudsman’s investigation, one affecting the mayor’s office where senior staff had been involved.

“They will still have an opportunity to comment on, and see decisions that are made, but they previously had the ability to take part in the process,” said Phil Wilson.

Hopefully this means Auckland Council will stop refusing information requests unlawfully.