Row brewing over representation in Rangitikei

Houses on a hill in Taihape.

Rangitikei Mayor Andy Watson wants to abolish ward representation as population growth has made current representation uneven.

"The population of Marton and Bulls are growing at a very fast rate. Towns like Hunterville, Taihape and Ratana have meant the current ward structures are uneven in numbers. Each ward councillor has to represent a similar number of people and right now this is not happening at all," Watson said.

But Taihape Community Board chairwoman MIchelle Fannin said the board will be fighting "tooth and nail" to keep the town's board. "We're the link to the council for the people of Taihape and we intend to stay.''

The council representation review, run every six years, is asking the public to have their say this month.

The review looks at the ward structure and whether to retain community boards or change to comunity committees instead.

There are currently five wards.

Watson said a new two or three ward structure would be the answer in light of the hefty population rises in Marton and Bulls.

"Because it shows clearly the the current ward structure is out of kilter. Marton and Bulls are both growing faster than the other towns which clearly shows the ward structure needs to change this time round. There needs to be a balance.''

However, Ms Fannin disagrees.

"A committee wouldn't have the power. We are also in contact with people in remote areas to ensure everyone is well aware of what Taihape could lose. And we're letting people know we can guide them through all council processes and for many people that is very valuable. A committee wouldn't have the delegation that we have."

According to council the Taihape board costs $46,074 a year to run.

A council breakdown shows that it works out at $31.04 per ratepayer in the board's area, breaking down to 58 per cent from rural ratepayers and 42 per cent from those in rural Taihape.

Watson said it was time now to have a balance.

"I really think we should do away with the wards and replace them with a southern and northern ward. I am sure it be best for everyone. We really need to keep a balance.''