This article first appeared on RNZ.

Local Government Minister Simeon Brown has announced he plans to appoint a royal observer to Wellington City Council.

It comes after it was revealed the council will now have to rewrite its long-term plan for 2024-2034 after abandoning the sale of shares in the city airport.

Ministers threatened to interfere with the council’s work, calling it a “drum”.

The council called an emergency meeting for Monday afternoon.

Even more to come

– RNZ