Local Councils Get a Bailout in Budget 2025

The Taxpayers’ Union is slamming the Government’s decision to expand the rates relief regime for SuperGold cardholders, describing it as a ‘bailout for wasteful councils’.

Taxpayers’ Union Spokesman, James Ross said “Instead of forcing local councils to live within their means, Simon Watts has caved to the pressure from Local Government New Zealand by issuing deficit spending to 'shut up the oldies' complaining about unaffordable rates. It will mean councils will be under even less pressure to reign in their costs, and shifts the burden of out-of-control rates onto taxpayers.”

“Shifting costs from retiree ratepayers onto taxpayers does not make councils more efficient or tackle the costs of living. It’s why we need rates capping right now - as done in some states in Australia and councils across the UK."

“While the Minister refused to meet the likes of the Federated Farmers, the Taxpayers’ Union, and other groups concerned about rates - those dinners with LGNZ and council-lovies have clearly worked. They get a bailout, while ratepayers and taxpayers fly in the wind."