Our community is feeling the heavy blow of unexpected financial strain due to rates bills that we were never warned about. They said 5.8% and some got hit with over 40% The Auckland Council, fully aware of the disproportionate impact these rates would have on our rural community, chose silence over transparency. In doing so, they betrayed our trust and silenced our voices in a democratic process that promised fairness, but delivered uncertainty. This is a fight for fairness and accountability, to ensure our homes and futures are not jeopardized by bureaucratic negligence.

The Local Government Act mandates clear and transparent communication regarding all rating impacts, ensuring that ratepayers across New Zealand are adequately informed about changes that could affect them financially. In the case of the Auckland Council's 2025/26 rates consultation, this legal obligation was not met. The information presented was misleading, leaving many ratepayers in the dark about the true nature of the financial burdens they would face.

We demand that the Government launch a full inquiry into this oversight by Auckland Council, ensuring that such neglect does not continue unchecked. This inquiry should focus on identifying the failures within the consultation process and implementing concrete measures to prevent similar issues in future. Real penalties must be enforced for councils that fail to meet their legal duties, reinforcing the importance of transparency and accountability within local government operations.

This petition is not just a request for an investigation, but a plea for justice for all New Zealand ratepayers who deserve honesty and openness from their councils. By signing this petition, you join us in calling for the Government to uphold the principles laid down in the Local Government Act, and to protect the financial stability and trust of communities across New Zealand. Sign now to demand change and safeguard our community’s future.