Wellington City Council has commissioned an independent review into a library website project that cost ratepayers almost $600,000.
Chief executive Matt Prosser appointed Colin MacDonald QSO to lead the review. MacDonald, a former chief operating officer at ANZ with expertise in technology, will conduct the work without charge, though the council will cover reasonable expenses.
The review will examine whether the website was built efficiently and effectively, and whether costs and scope were properly managed. MacDonald will report his findings to Prosser and the council before mid-September, with the results to be made public soon after.
Prosser ordered the review after public criticism of the project's cost, which was revealed in June 2026. The website was designed to promote the library and increase visitation, and is separate from an existing site where users can become members and reserve books.
"I am clear that a value for money lens must be placed over every decision and expenditure the council puts in place," Prosser said. "This was a decision made in a different time, and we are already on the record as saying that such a project, if proposed today, would be unlikely to get approval."
Mayor Andrew Little said he was shocked at the website cost.