KEY POINTS:
Former High Court judge Peter Salmon is expected to lead the royal commission of inquiry to shape the future of Auckland when a heavyweight team of three and their terms of reference are announced today.
The Herald understands the other commissioners will be former public servant Dame Margaret
Bazley and David Shand, who headed the inquiry into soaring rates.
The trio have the complex job of thrashing out the future of Auckland and streamlining its seven territorial authorities and regional council.
That could lead to the biggest shake-up of local government in the region since the forced amalgamation in 1989 of 39 municipalities into four city councils, three district councils and one regional council.
The appointments have been keenly awaited in Auckland since Prime Minister Helen Clark announced plans for the royal commission in late July.
It is understood the crucial terms of reference will also be unveiled today.
The Beehive decided to set up the royal commission after Helen Clark expressed concern at the ideas local councils put forward for streamlining local government.
It is understood the PM wanted a bolder shake-up and saw the commission as a way of putting the process above the political manoeuvring at the time, including local body elections.
Justice Salmon, 72, has extensive experience in resource management issues. He lives in Auckland. Last week, he was appointed to hear 11 disciplinary charges against assistant police commissioner Clint Rickards.
Dame Margaret, who lives in the Wairarapa, is best known for delivering the damning commission of inquiry report this year into allegations of police sexual misconduct. She has a tough, no-nonsense reputation.
Mr Shand, another Auckland resident, chaired the inquiry into local government rates, which made several recommendations for change when it reported in August.
The inquiry found Aucklanders paid almost 40 per cent above the national average in rates. Auckland City's were 70 per cent above.
"The seven territorial authorities in the Auckland region are diverse with different rating systems, valuation basis, use of debt and the business structure for water and wastewater."
The royal commission is expected to report back by the end of next year.
Changes could be in place for the 2010 local body elections.