This is a type of local authority in New Zealand. They are either city or district councils, and there are no differences in the way that they operate. Territorial authorities’ responsibilities include: the provision of local infrastructure, including water, sewerage, storm water, roads, environmental safety and health, district emergency management and civil defence preparedness, building control, public health inspections and other environmental health matters, controlling the effects of land use (including hazardous substances, natural hazards and indigenous biodiversity), noise, and the effects of activities on the surface of lakes and rivers.