Petition issues rates challenge

A petition urging Rodney ratepayers to fight rates increases and show the Auckland Regional Council that "apathy" is not their "middle name" is doing the rounds in Orewa.

The petition, organised by the Orewa Ratepayers Association, has been posted in bars, shops and other businesses.

"Ratepayers of Rodney: Auckland Regional Council has shown their authority by savage rate increases, which could well put some of us out of our homes and/or businesses," it said.

"Show that apathy is not your middle name by signing this protest sheet."

The association's vice-president, Ron Lydford, said it was targeting all groups using the community hall and would collect signatures door to door.

A public meeting on August 2 would also boost numbers.

Mr Lydford said it was time for people to make a stand.

"It looks as if we have made a bit of ground. People are not so apathetic now.

"Hopefully they are going to do something about it and stand up for their rights."

* The president of the Orewa Ratepayers Association, John Drury, can be contacted at Email: jdrury@cosnet.co.nz; Fax: (09) 426-6279.