An examination of strategic management in the Wanganui District Council: a case study

Abstract

This thesis focuses upon the contribution of strategic management to achieve “good local governance". A theory of "good local governance" is proposed. Based upon this a further theory on "the local government management continuum" is developed. These two theories provide a practical foundation upon which local government practitioners can work towards achieving "good" local governance through improving the implementation of strategic management. The usefulness of these theories is demonstrated by a case study that examines strategic management in the Wanganui District Council from 1989 to 1997. The case study concludes by identifying the constraints that the council needs to overcome if it wishes to implement an improved model of strategic management.