Ratepayers deserve maximum value from $2m property purchase

The Taxpayers’ Union is questioning Horowhenua District Council’s decision to give iwi and hapū first right of refusal over six council-owned Oxford Street properties.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesperson Tyler Groenewald said:

“These properties were bought using $2 million of taxpayer-funded Better Off grants. When they are sold, the council’s job should be to get the best possible deal for ratepayers."

“Giving one group first right of refusal risks shutting out other buyers before the wider market has had a chance to compete."

“If iwi or hapū put forward the best offer, they should win through an open and competitive process. Ratepayer-funded assets should be sold on what delivers the best value, not preferential access.”