Labour's leader says that if his party is elected, it will do away with the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority and reinstate elected councillors to the regional council.
David Cunliffe made the announcement in Christchurch on Thursday, the final part of the party's Canterbury Recovery Package.
Leader David Cunliffe, centre, at the announcement on Thursday. Photo: RNZ / Jemma Brackebush
Mr Cunliffe said qualified local people would appointed to oversee the dissolution of CERA and the return of its powers to local organisations.
But Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says that would be an unnecessary new layer of governance.
"You can sort of get to a point where no decisions are made because you're in constant consultation. I think we've got the balance about right, I think David Cunliffe is completely wrong and out of touch on this one."
Mr Brownlee said Labour's plan would not speed things up or offer new solutions.
David Cunliffe said Labour would also restore democracy to the Canterbury Regional Council by holding elections as early as 2015.
Mr Brownlee said the Government has also signalled it would consult the public before making further decisions on the governance of the council.
The general election will be held on 20 September.