This 2006 Article IV Consultation highlights that following a vigorous expansion in recent years, a cyclical slowing in New Zealand’s economy commenced in 2005, with growth declining to 21⁄4 percent. Economic growth had averaged 41⁄4 percent annually in 2002–04, with domestic demand boosted by large migration inflows, wealth effects from rising housing prices, and income effects from high commodity prices. With slower growth easing resource pressures, inflation is expected to moderate, allowing an eventual easing in monetary policy.

The information revolution, in recent years, has worked as a catalyst to create a globalized yet localized world with local governments playing an ever-increasing role in the domestic and global economy. How these governments will be able to shoulder their responsibilities' especially the delivery of local services more effectively is the concern of this book. The book, edited by Anwar Shah, provides a comparative perspective on international practices in local governance and draws lessons from these experiences to guide future reform. Case studies include the following countries: Argentina, B.

"This publication has been prepared to present a historical record and a ready reference for users of statistics, librarians, etc., of the publications issued from 1840 to 1960 by the Department of Statistics and its predecessors whose function was related to that of a central statistical office. It should serve as a useful guide to the development of New Zealand since the proclamation of British Sovereignty, and should have particular value to students and research workers."--Preface.