The purpose of Cultural Well-Being and Local Government is to contribute to an understanding of cultural well-being within local government contexts, and to be a guide to tools and resources for all those interested in the concept and its application. In particular, it is intended for the use of local government politicians and staff involved in community outcomes and long-term council community plans (LTCCP) processes being undertaken over 2005-2006. ‘Local government’ here means territorial local authorities as well as regional councils and unitary authorities. It may also be useful to local and regional arts, culture, and heritage organisations – and to central government departments and agencies (especially those who work closely with local government). Cultural Well-Being and Local Government is neither the ‘last word’ nor the ‘Ministry position’ on cultural well-being. All three reports are meant to be useful, and to inform discussions and planning about: