Six-month water rates arriving
Residents in Te Awamutu, Pirongia and Kihikihi will receive water rates covering a six month period this week, rather than the regular quarterly water rates.
Waipā District Council was unable to undertake the April quarterly water meter reading due to restrictions over the Covid-19 lockdown period.
As a result, water rates for households in Te Awamutu, Pirongia and Kihikihi will be covering a six-month period, rather than the regular three-month cycle.
Council’s finance manager, Sarah Davies, said households who didn’t make a voluntary payment are unfortunately likely to receive a higher water rates bill.
“We posted a letter to Te Awamutu, Kihikihi and Pirongia in May advising of the change to meter readings and suggested a voluntary payment could be made to help reduce the impact of this six month water rate.”
“We recognise water rates may be further impacted due to families being at home and using more water during the lockdown period. For anyone struggling to pay their water rates, please contact Council so we can help you with payment options.”
Water rates are made up of a fixed charge, the same for every household in the district which helps pay for water infrastructure, and a variable charge for the amount of water used.
Councils, by law, are not allowed to make a profit from water, they are only allowed to recover the costs of treating, supplying and disposing of water.
Residents can pay their water rates online at www.waipadc.govt.nz/payit.