Wellington City Council faces criticism over rate increases and parking fees

As the Wellington City Council prepares to finalise a controversial long-term plan, it is under renewed scrutiny.

The plan includes a proposed 15.9 per cent and the introduction of parking fees in suburban areas.

Following last year’s 21 per cent rate increase, Councillor Ray Chung fears these new measures could worsen the cost-of-living crisis for Wellingtonians, particularly for vulnerable communities.

Speaking on Pacific Mornings, Chung expressed the growing frustration among residents.

“We can't keep doing these things, and we can't afford it,” Chung said.

“So we've got to have a look at it, and whether we ignore the people and say that ‘oh no, we've got to charge as much anyway’ or ‘we're going to go ahead with doing all these things that we put on the plan’ or we consider it and then we take some things out.”

Cost of living and community impact

The proposed rate increase coincides with a push to introduce parking fees in Wellington’s suburbs - a move Chung argues will disproportionately affect small businesses and low-income families.

The Council is made up of elected representatives who determine legislation and appoint a CEO to manage operations. Photo/Wellington City Council

Suburbs like Newtown, Miramar, Island Bay, and Tawa rely heavily on local customers, and reduced foot traffic could further harm these businesses as residents look for free parking elsewhere.

“Now the shops in the suburbs are struggling now as it is and it's actually, difficult because, of course, they don't have a captive audience.

“Well, I wouldn't say perhaps not like the CBD because even the CBD don't have their regular customers anymore.

“So I think it's not going to help those small businesses in the suburbs and of course, remember that they only serve the people, some of their breakfasts, lunches and some of their dinners.

“I don't think it's so much the $3 or the $4 or whatever they pay for it.

“It's just that parking is always a problematic thing that you never know how long you're going to be somewhere.

“So you put some money in there, and of course, there's always the danger that if you go over that time, you're going to get a parking ticket… That adds another $20 to your lunch.”

The impact on Wellington’s Pacific communities, particularly in areas like Newtown, could be significant.

Access to affordable transport and parking is vital for residents who must balance work, family commitments, and rising living costs.

A misguided focus?

Adding to public frustration, Chung criticised the council for considering a submission on the Government’s Treaty Principles Bill, which he believes falls outside the council’s responsibilities.

“Now there's nothing in that oath that said anything about we have to look at what central government are doing and look at all these other issues.

“We've got enough problems of our own without getting involved in these things. It's just crazy.

Mayor Tory Whanau. Photo/Wellington City Council

“I think it's really a distraction, and we shouldn't even be debating it. We shouldn't even be going into it.”

Public backlash on the horizon

Chung acknowledged that the council’s decisions might provoke a strong backlash from voters in future elections.

“People should be looking at what the Council are doing and saying do I agree with them?

“Are they doing the right thing, or is this the wrong time to do these things?

“And so I do want them to come out and say exactly what they think and for them to tell us exactly what they want.”

Wellington residents will soon have the opportunity to have their say as Tuesday’s meeting is set to finalise the plan ahead of next year’s scheduled public consultation.

Watch Ray Chung speak about the appointment of a Crown observer to Wellington City Council.

Long-Term Plan Vote and Key Changes

The Council’s long-term plan vote has now been confirmed. Key measures include focusing on reducing spending to tackle debt while maintaining essential services.

According to the Council’s recent announcement, the plan prioritises investment in infrastructure like water services and transport despite cuts to non-essential projects.

Mayor Tory Whanau emphasised balancing fiscal responsibility with maintaining core services.

“This plan is about getting back to basics while ensuring we’re meeting the needs of our growing city,” she said.

The revised plan also outlines a commitment to public consultation in early 2025, which will allow residents to share their views on proposed changes.

However, concerns remain over the affordability of rate increases and the introduction of suburban parking fees.

Critics argue that these measures could deepen financial strain on residents already struggling with the cost of living.