What are we doing?

We are seeking feedback on rates remissions for whenua Māori, with discussions on what our remission policy should look from the perspective of the owners/occupiers, trusts, hapū and iwi before it is written.

This way, the policy will be built from the ground up with local knowledge of people that will be directly affected.

Why?

In 2020 we made the decision to bring the collection of our rates in house. This decision has a significant implication on whenua Māori within the district.

The Bay of Plenty region is made up of 38 percent whenua Māori - we know that whenua Māori has compliance and regulatory complexities, which require a unique approach.

We are now developing a remission policy for the rating of whenua Māori.

With your guidance we hope to shape a remission policy that will work with current legislation and incorporate feedback that meets the needs of all parties, both now and in the future.

How?

Your feedback will be collated and where possible, used to shape the policy we are currently drafting. Once Councillors have approved the draft Rates Remission and Postponement Policy, this will go out to the public for consultation.

You can give direct feedback on the policy via email, in writing or using our online survey.

We will be hosting group hui/workshops in Whakatāne, Rotorua and Tauranga.

We can meet via online hui or wānanga - contact us if you'd like to set this up.