Calls for a rethink to local government, from the woman charged with running our fifth largest city

Tauranga City Council has been run by government-appointed commissioners, since its elected councillors were discharged over governance concerns more than three years ago.

Local Government Minister Simeon Brown is rejecting calls to limit the power of the commissioners, until new councillors are elected in July.

Commission Chair Anne Tolley says she believes a "hybrid model", of both elected councillors and appointed commissioners could work in Tauranga, and elsewhere.

She says the whole process around consultation can be hijacked by small groups of people, and most who make formal submissions to council are the outspoken opponents of potential projects.