The Tararua District Council has concerns a proposed 30 per cent increase in the fire levy to fund the new combined Fire and Emergency New Zealand structure, will cost ratepayers.
And with Tararua rural fire crews well served by excellent equipment and resources, councillor Shirley Hull said she's worried the increase in the levy won't come with any increase in the level of service.
"I'm not happy with what's being proposed," she said.
The New Zealand Fire Service Commission has signalled intended changes to the fire levy, requiring a 30 per cent increase in funding from levies in year one of the merger between urban and rural fire authorities.
Tararua District Council chief executive Blair King said councils, such as Tararua, who have invested heavily in their rural fire services are very concerned by what is proposed.