On behalf of One Network Wellington Live, we uncover a troubling story of power and control in Wellington. A major infrastructure company has been invited into Wellington City Council, securing unprecedented authority over the city’s resources. This firm, acting like a cartel, now dominates every stage of council operations for major projects. From planning, maintenance – scoping projects to signing off work, doing the work, submitting invoices and paying themselves, they hold total control over the processes. Consequently, residents face dire consequences, with skyrocketing rates pushing vulnerable people, especially the elderly, out of their homes. This article explores who is involved, why this happened, and what it means for Wellington’s future.

The infrastructure company, a well-known utility provider, quietly embedded itself within the council’s operations. Initially, they offered expertise to streamline projects. However, their influence grew rapidly. Soon, they convinced council managers to grant them full delegated authority. As a result, they now scope projects, provide quotes, perform the work, approve it, send invoices, and even maintain the infrastructure. Moreover, they pay themselves directly from council funds. This level of control is staggering. No checks, no balances, just one company for years.

How did this happen? Greed and opportunity played a role. The company saw a chance to monopolise Wellington’s infrastructure. By being huge, securing total authority, they eliminated competitors and maximised profits. Meanwhile, council managers, perhaps overwhelmed or persuaded by promises of efficiency, allowed this takeover. Unfortunately, any questions about the arrangement fell on deaf ears. Thus, the company became a cartel, legally controlling every aspect of the council’s infrastructure work. In New Zealand, such behaviour is illegal, but that doesn’t make it right.

The consequences are devastating. Wellington’s residents now face soaring council rates. For instance, elderly homeowners struggle to keep their properties. Many live on fixed pensions, yet their rates have doubled in recent years. Consequently, some are forced to sell their homes, uprooting lives and memories. Furthermore, small businesses feel the pinch as rates climb, stifling growth. The cartel’s grip has ensured that every project costs more than it should. Therefore, Wellingtonians pay the price for this unchecked power.

Who is involved? The infrastructure company sits at the centre, but council managers share responsibility. They allowed this system to flourish, either knowingly or through negligence. Meanwhile, residents remain largely unaware of the cartel’s influence. However, whispers of discontent are growing. Community groups are starting to ask questions, and local activists demand transparency. Yet, the company’s control remains firm, and change is coming, but their influence is embedded.