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By local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:
West Coast residents face more "user pay" services and a hefty hike in rates under the West Coast Regional Council's proposed long-term plan (LTP).
Chairperson Peter Haddock said the council knew the proposed increases will be … View moreBy local democracy reporter Brendon McMahon:
West Coast residents face more "user pay" services and a hefty hike in rates under the West Coast Regional Council's proposed long-term plan (LTP).
Chairperson Peter Haddock said the council knew the proposed increases will be challenging for some.
"But if we don't make these changes now, we are just kicking the can down the road."
Ratepayers should brace for a range of rises in the LTP 2024-25, including a proposed 27% general rates increase, a 22.7% rise in the uniform annual general charge (UAG), and jumps in the targeted rates for individual flood rating districts.
The council is also proposing to increase user fees and charges.
"The fairest approach is for those who use our services should pay for them," Haddock said on April 11.
He said the council wants feedback on is how to pay for under-invested council systems and processes, while demand for services "keeps growing".
"We are unable to carry out basic functions and services to meet community expectations, particularly in the back office financial area. This is now starting to seriously affect all ratepayers," Haddock said.
Relying on debt to cover day-to-day operational costs was "not sustainable".
"We have a big programme of work ahead of us so we have tried to lessen and smooth the load by spreading the increase over several years where we can."
The council is consulting a total budget increase of 20.8% for 2024-25, partially funded by borrowing alongside its preferred 27% general rates increase.
The council proposed initially borrowing for some activities until it can return to a stage of paying of debt in the next few years, Haddock said.
The rates had been kept "artificially low" and council had "no option but to take this approach to catch up", he said.
The council believed the alternative 44% rates-alone funding option in 2024-25 would be "unacceptable" to residents.
Formal feedback is also being sought on the future of Predator Free Te Kinga, as its external funding by Predator-free 2050 is due to run out in 2026-27.
Haddock said Te Kinga was "a special project for the region" with gains in species protection, but it needed ratepayer finding to continue.
Other key proposals flagged in the LTP:
* Formal transfer of the ownership of the Grey Floodwall and the Havill Wall (Franz Josef) assets to the regional council -- in line with flood and erosion protection asset management on behalf of 23 rating districts as a core function of council.
* Increases to targeted rates and the UAG.
The UAG will increase from $155.69 in 2023-24 to $192.59 in 2024-25. This fixed charge per property does not discriminate on location or property type.
About 75% of West Coast properties received some benefit from the region's 23 rating districts flood protection assets.
Many needed investment and work to maintain them, "or to potentially increase their standard of protection which will drive targeted rate increases".
That includes a bump of more than 500% for Westport's rating district in the next three years.
Consultation runs from April 12 until May 10, with public hearings anticipated from May 20 before council adopts the plan in June.
The Consultation Document and supporting information can be viewed at www.wcrc.govt.nz....
Copies will also be available to view at the Westport, Greymouth and Hokitika libraries and the Reefton Service Centre from April 15.
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Visit us on our National Adoption Open Day on Saturday, 13… View moreReady to welcome a new furry friend into your family these school holidays?
We are reducing our adoption fees to make it easier than ever to find your perfect companion, just in time for winter. From 13-28 April, our fees are 25% off.
Visit us on our National Adoption Open Day on Saturday, 13 April, or apply online for a private meet-and-greet.
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Be aware, pesky phone scammers’ latest move may be posing as Police officers seeking your financial details.
New Zealand Police are aware of reports emerging this month where Kiwis have been contacted on the phone by someone claiming to be an officer. The officer will claim to be from a … View moreBe aware, pesky phone scammers’ latest move may be posing as Police officers seeking your financial details.
New Zealand Police are aware of reports emerging this month where Kiwis have been contacted on the phone by someone claiming to be an officer. The officer will claim to be from a particular department, tell you that you have been a victim of fraud or scam, and begin to try and obtain further financial information from you. This is a scam.
Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Bolton, from Auckland City’s Financial Crime Unit, says there have been at least a dozen reports made to Police, and these scam calls are largely being made to landlines. “While Police do not have accurate numbers of how many of these scam calls have been received, it is important that the public are aware,” he says. “Police will make some enquiries into these calls, but our experience has shown that often phone-based scammers will be operating from overseas. “We appreciate the vigilance of those who have contact Police so far, as this will help us to make others in the community aware.”
Unfortunately, scams can take many different forms and target victims on different platforms, Detective Senior Sergeant Bolton says. “Scammers are opportunistic and thrive off your trust and good-will. If you receive a call of this nature, do not hand over any personal details.”
New Zealand Police will never contact people seeking their banking details, card numbers, pin numbers or passwords. There are instances where legitimate Police officers will contact you as part of their duties. Police ask that the public remain vigilant.
𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿:
➡️Police will never ask for details about your bank cards, pin numbers or passwords over the phone.
➡️Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, or is too good to be true, it probably is.
➡️If you are uncertain, ask for the officer’s details. Hang up, contact 105 and request the officer to contact you.
➡️Police aren’t in the business of offering prize money.
If you are in the unfortunate position of being a victim of a scam, please report the matter to Police.
Take the chance to upskill yourself on scam awareness, check for further information on the NetSafe website.
𝗘𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗺:
Police are also aware of an email scam that has re-emerged, that claims to be authorities from Police and other justice sector partners. This scam has been subject of previous advisories. We continue to advise people to be extremely cautious when receiving unsolicited emails. Do not reply an the email of this nature under any circumstances.
Westland District Council have shared an update about the heavy rain that is expected to continue.
- Sandbags are available to businesses and residents in areas of Hokitika identified as likely to be worst affected by surface flooding and cars causing bow waves.
- Operations Manager Erle … View moreWestland District Council have shared an update about the heavy rain that is expected to continue.
- Sandbags are available to businesses and residents in areas of Hokitika identified as likely to be worst affected by surface flooding and cars causing bow waves.
- Operations Manager Erle Bencich says, “From previous experience, the streets most likely to be affected are Revell Street along the beachfront, Tancred Street and Sewell Street. To assist people and reduce the likelihood of water entering premises, there will be pallets with sandbags available for use at the following locations:
Corner of Stafford and Sewell Streets
Corner of Hamilton and Tancred Streets
Corner of Tancred and Weld Streets
Corner of Weld and Sewell Streets.
Council is preparing at least 500 sandbags available for use, but we ask that people only take what they need to protect their properties.
- If there is surface flooding, the council ask that people minimise their vehicle usage in these areas to reduce the bow waves sending water off the road and onto the pavements and surrounding premises.
The Press and The Post (Stuff) are collecting data on the cost of early childhood education in New Zealand. The data will be anonymised (unless you have opted-in to being contacted for a potential interview, via the last question).
If you have children in early childhood education, please help … View moreThe Press and The Post (Stuff) are collecting data on the cost of early childhood education in New Zealand. The data will be anonymised (unless you have opted-in to being contacted for a potential interview, via the last question).
If you have children in early childhood education, please help us out by completing a brief survey. Click here to find the survey. The results will be reported on thepress.co.nz and thepost.co.nz at a later date.
Attention NZ Streamers! As inflation takes its toll, major streaming services in NZ are increasing their prices.
Sitting back and watching your favourite movies will likely cost more money. So check them out! But don't worry, we've got tips to help you save without missing out on your… View moreAttention NZ Streamers! As inflation takes its toll, major streaming services in NZ are increasing their prices.
Sitting back and watching your favourite movies will likely cost more money. So check them out! But don't worry, we've got tips to help you save without missing out on your favourite shows! Stay tuned!
Canadian clinical neuroscientist and researcher Professor Vladimir Hachinski has been announced the winner of the 2024 Ryman Prize - an annual $250,000 grant for the world’s best discovery, development, advancement or achievement that enhances the quality of life for older people.
The prize … View moreCanadian clinical neuroscientist and researcher Professor Vladimir Hachinski has been announced the winner of the 2024 Ryman Prize - an annual $250,000 grant for the world’s best discovery, development, advancement or achievement that enhances the quality of life for older people.
The prize was presented by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at a ceremony at Logan Campbell Village in Auckland today, celebrating the major contribution Professor Hachinski has made to the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and the links between ‘the terrible three’ - stroke, dementia and coronary heart disease.
Click read more for the full article.
Why adopt from SPCA? Because all our animals come desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, health checked, and prepared for their life as a pet by our staff and foster families.
With expert advice, 3 months free pet insurance, and Purina discount vouchers included, our adoptions are not only … View moreWhy adopt from SPCA? Because all our animals come desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, health checked, and prepared for their life as a pet by our staff and foster families.
With expert advice, 3 months free pet insurance, and Purina discount vouchers included, our adoptions are not only affordable but also provide everything your new friend needs to thrive. And between 13-28 April only, our adoption fees are 25% off!
Visit one of our Centres on our National Adoption Open Day on Saturday, 13 April, or apply online to arrange a private meet-and-greet. Help us Clear the Shelters these school holidays!
Get the best protection you can before winter. The flu vaccine is free if you’re over 65. It’s also free for pregnant people and for many others with certain underlying health conditions, including diabetes, heart and lung diseases, and mental health conditions.
To book your flu vaccine … View moreGet the best protection you can before winter. The flu vaccine is free if you’re over 65. It’s also free for pregnant people and for many others with certain underlying health conditions, including diabetes, heart and lung diseases, and mental health conditions.
To book your flu vaccine contact your doctor, pharmacy or healthcare provider, or visit
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Seven-term Mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis CNZM QSO MBE JP, has been named the 2024 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
Affectionately dubbed ‘Mr Wairarapa’, Bob has served his community in multiple areas, including health services, commercial … View moreSeven-term Mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis CNZM QSO MBE JP, has been named the 2024 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
Affectionately dubbed ‘Mr Wairarapa’, Bob has served his community in multiple areas, including health services, commercial development, the arts, aviation, homelessness, conservation and sports.
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Click read more for the full article.
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