$5m bonus brings rate-rise doubt

The possibility of a $5 million surplus has brought calls from some Auckland Regional Council members for a trim to the 3.2 per cent rates increase proposed for the coming year.

Chief executive Jo Brosnahan revealed the surplus yesterday. Councillor Craig Little then called for a "zero rates increase" and chairwoman Gwen Bull suggested "knocking back" the size of the increase.

But other councillors said the rate rise was still needed to cover increased costs.

The council will continue debating its rating policy today.