Back
618 days ago

Alternative system for charging for water usage

Gordon from Halswell

I complained about the excess usage charge as it was never 'fair' and in the back of my mind, I thought that it has been the council's responsibility to supply it to us free of charge, which has now turned into the 1st 700lpd, as it is paid for in with our rates.
The fact that some use small amounts and others a huge amount, brings the 'fairness' issue to the forefront.
This topic has made me rethink and come up with another system.:
The council drops part of the rates pertaining to water supply and treatment and instead, we all pay for what we use via the meter - 'User pays'- no arguments.
The people who do not have meters are charged an average, +25% to encourage them to get a meter installed
The boot is now on the other foot but with fewer problems and whatever you use, you pay for, just like electricity.
Having written this, I am wondering if this was not the plan all along. However it does not matter if it was or was not, I can not think of a fairer system.
Remember for the "Water is free" brigade, we are not paying for the water, only pumping up from the Aquifer, treatment, and supply to the properties
I am sure some will disagree.

More messages from your neighbours
2 days ago

Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.

When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?

Image
Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
  • 83% Yes
    83% Complete
  • 14.5% No
    14.5% Complete
  • 2.5% Other - I'll share below
    2.5% Complete
1298 votes
6 days ago

Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.

What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?

Image
When should the tree go up? 🎄
  • 4.6% Second half of November
    4.6% Complete
  • 43.6% 1st December
    43.6% Complete
  • 17.8% A week before Christmas
    17.8% Complete
  • 33% Whenever you wish
    33% Complete
  • 1.1% Other - I'll share below
    1.1% Complete
2484 votes
5 days ago

What's your favourite tomato recipe?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.

Image