More rates hikes!!!
Hello Neighbours,
I have just discovered that the rates situation is set to get very much worse than it already is! In the current HCC pre-election report, rates are set to double in 5 years and triple in 10 years!!! This is totally unacceptable!!! Our rates have already nearly doubled in the last 5 years. WHY? 5 years ago the HCC was taking care of basic needs, and now they have double the amount in rates coming in as well as all the extra money from the many new houses and flats that have been built.
Raising the rates more would force many of us to sell and move to much cheaper accommodation. Landlords would have to raise rents quite substantially to cover the cost of the rates and the economy would be impacted as a result. If other Councils follow suit, the number of homeless people is sure to rise!! (I could be one of them)
How can we stop this!! It would be helpful if we knew which councillors voted for the rates rises and the parking meters in Petone, so that we can make sure we don’t vote them back in.
Does anyone know what options we have in fighting against such extortionate rates. Surely there should be an oversight body, or government checks to prevent this? If the rates double, my entire pension would go to paying rates!
We're taking the bus!
The number of Wellingtonians taking the bus and train rose by 3% last week compared to the same time last year, according to Metlink.
Not surprising given petrol prices at the moment. But if you're considering giving up your car commute for a leisurely bus ride in the mornings, it would be worth it.
It's about to get even easier: In April, e-pay will be launched, meaning you can tap on with your credit cards as well as smart devices.
It's better on the environment too: With most Metlink trains running on electricity, 25% of the bus fleet being EV’s and the Ika Rere electric ferry, Metlink is able to move more people using less fuel than any other transport option.
With fuel costs so high, it's a good idea to jump on board if you can. If you've become a public transport convert recently, how have you found it?
Poll: Tightening the belt at the pump ... How are you pivoting? 🚌🚲🏠
Between the headlines about the Strait of Hormuz and the creeping costs at our local stations, the "fuel crisis" has moved from the news to our wallets.
A recent opinion piece in The Post suggested that Wellington Councils should be shifting our public facilities to renewable energy ASAP to keep our rates from being vulnerable to these global fuel hikes. It’s a big conversation for the city, but what about your daily commute?
We want to know: With fuel prices staying high for the foreseeable future, are you changing how you get around the capital?
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19.6% Yes – I’m a bus/train user
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5.8% Dusting off the bike
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6.3% Working from home
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61.4% Nope, same as always
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6.9% Other (Tell us your strategy in the comments!)
Poll: Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?
Help settle the great kiwi debate ... cheese on top, or folded inside?
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76.6% Inside!
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23.4% On top!
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