Porirua City Council has released new rates and fees information for the 2024/25 year, now available on their website. Residential ratepayers will experience an average increase of approximately 17.5% in their rates. This increase is attributed to the need for continued investment in water services, which consume 55% of the city’s overall budget, alongside rising costs for maintaining services amid ongoing price escalations and cost of living challenges.
Mayor Anita Baker announced that ratepayers will receive their invoices via email or letter starting from 31 July. The Council offers various payment methods including direct debit, credit card, automatic payment, internet banking, EFTPOS, or cash. Additionally, a rates payment plan is available, allowing payments to be spread over the year on a weekly, fortnightly, or monthly basis, tailored to individual budgeting needs. Mayor Baker encourages everyone who still receives rates notices by letter to switch to emailed invoices, which she says is quicker and more cost-efficient.
Ratepayers can switch to electronic rates notices by signing up at: poriruacity.govt.nz/switch or by emailing: [email protected] with their property account number, property address, and email address.
The Council’s services and activities are funded through a combination of general rates and specific charges. The increased costs for energy, water supply, insurance, and interest rates significantly impact the overall delivery costs of basic services, prompting adjustments to many fees and charges starting from 1 August 2024.
Earlier, on 1 July, adjustments to animal control fees and Spicer Landfill fees were made. Notably, general landfill charges increased while green waste fees were reduced.
For detailed information on specific rates and fees, residents can visit the Porirua City Council’s property search page at poriruacity.govt.nz/property-search and the fees section at poriruacity.govt.nz/fees. Ratepayers are encouraged to review the new rates and consider available payment options to manage their finances effectively.