Huge rates hike for rural Rangiora owners
By David Hill, local democracy reporter
Rural property owners near Rangiora have seen a large hike in their latest rates bill thanks to the possibility of subdivision.
Properties in the Rangiora-Oxford Rd and Johns Road area, west of Rangiora, have been affected by pending zoning changes in the proposed Waimakariri District Plan, which was notified in 2021.
Local Democracy Reporting understands properties previously valued at $1.5 million, are now thought to be worth $11m, based on a new ability to either develop or parcel up and sell their land.
Waimakariri District Council chief executive Jeff Millward said council staff have been working to identify the affected properties and make contact with property owners.
"The few properties within this zoning, through no fault of their own except being within the zone, have experienced two significant increases.
"One through the three yearly inflationary effect on property values, that has been experienced throughout the district by other property owners, and by an uplift based on being classified in this zone, even though they are still rural in form."
Millward said the property owners could apply to have the rate increase deferred.
If they chose this option, they would only face the inflationary increase until the property or part of the property was sold or developed into residential.
Should the property remain unsold or not be developed at the time of the next six yearly rates review, the extra rates would be written off, he said.
■ Public interest journalism funded through New Zealand on Air.
Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
-
64.3% Yes
-
33.4% No
-
2.3% Other - I'll share below
Paddy Gower seeks ‘bloody great Cantab’
The Kiwi journalist drilling deep into the country’s biggest issues is on a mission to find the local greats.
Paddy Gower is looking for the Good Kiwi in every region to feature in his show, The F@#$ing News - Paddy Gower Live on Tour.
To nominate a Good Kiwi, email reporters@press.co.nz with the name and a description of why your nominee should win. You an also share the local issues you think Paddy needs to tackle in the comments below.
It could be the woman whose knitting circle has made 3800 items for victims of domestic violence, the guy running the length of Aotearoa for mental health, or the woman with terminal cancer who spends her time campaigning to raise awareness and save lives.
“Basically I am looking for ... a bloody great Cantab who just gets on and gets things done. The criteria is somebody who has a positive attitude and makes the community a better place," Gower said.
“I will give this person the 'Big Ups' they deserve, and the community can celebrate them with me.”
A Good Kiwi will feature in each of Gower’s live shows in 14 centres through November and December. He will name the Cantabrian Good Kiwi at his Christchurch show on the evening of Friday, November 22, at St Margaret’s College.
The F@#$ing News - Paddy Gower Live on Tour is a sort of book tour, sort of stand-up comedy, some journalistic yarns and memoir, and some motivational speaking - with a fair bit of local in each show.
Gower also wants to know about topics of interest in the region.
“I’m ... going to be taking on a big issue facing Canterbury and offering up solutions.”
A stinky suburb, a neighbourhood needing a round-about or a cathedral in disrepair - “I will make your views count”, he said.
“I'm touring the nation to spread positivity, optimism and good vibes.”
*For tickets to the The F@#$ing News - Paddy Gower Live on Tour visit paddygower.co.nz
Cottage, small house wantd to rent
Wanted cottage, small house to rent for step dad, with garage or shed for doing up old car. Quiet and reliable teanant. Fit, no smoking or pets
Loading…
