3. Changes to rating for water races across the district

Selwyn's water race network provides an important resource for rural Selwyn. However, it is acknowledged that the network provides limited economic benefit for small properties, while for large properties there is a point at which the water race network physically cannot efficiently service the whole property.

What we’re proposing

The Council is proposing to adjust the funding impact statement in its 2022/23 Annual Plan to incorporate changes to the water race targeted rating of properties less than 0.5 hectares in area and for land areas greater than 500 hectares in area. These changes would come into effect from 1 July 2022.

Cost

• Under this proposal, the annual charge and per hectare charge will only apply to each rating unit larger than 0.5 hectares where water race service is available.
• In addition, the per hectare charge will only apply to the first 500 hectares, where water race service is available.

Impact on rates

These proposed changes would apply to 53 properties under 0.5 hectares and 11 properties over 500 hectares; and would result in a loss of rating income for the Council of around $82,000 per year comprising:

• $16,000 annually for properties less than 0.5 hectares
• $66,000 annually for properties with land area greater than 500 hectares.

Have your say

Let us know whether you support the proposal to make changes to the water race rating structure.