I recently moved here from Christchurch and I cannot believe the rates costs here. An example of this is that in Christchurch my property had a 2016 valuation of $365,000 and the current year's rates on this property is $2166.99. This includes three kerbside bins for rubbish, recycling and green/household waste. Water is also included and is not charged separately as it is here so if you add rubbish disposal and water rates to the cost of our current rates then the costs are even worse than it looks at first sight.

I believe that Tauranga City is due for another valuation this year. In view of the increased property values it would appear that rates are set to soar to levels that could be difficult for some residents to keep up with. I do not know if Tauranga has a Ratepayers Association or not but if not then we could do with one to put pressure on the council to keep rates at a reasonable level.

J Gordon, Gate Pa.