February 16, 2016
Rates write-offs good for councils
Gisborne Mayor Meng Foon is welcoming proposed changes to the rating of Maori land.
Minister for Maori Development Te Ururoa Flavell says as part of the reform of Te Ture Whenua Maori, cabinet has agreed that councils can stop rating marae and urupa reservations and wipe the arrears on unused or unoccupied land if owners come up with a plan to develop it.
They can also wipe the rates if there is little prospect of the land ever being used or occupied, which will reduce councils' enforcement costs.
Mr Foon says he will meet with Mr Flavell and Minister for Local Government Pesata Sam Lotu-Iiga next month to discuss the proposals, and offer the help of the Gisborne District Council to model the new rules.
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