Appeal time for MRRA

 

The hearing of the appeal by the Mangawhai Ratepayers & Residents Association (MRRA) against the court decision of February this year relating to legality or otherwise of rates charges and the decision that went against their claim is due to be heard this week.

Despite having the decision go against them at the earlier hearing in Whangarei, the MRRA are adamant they have strong grounds in terms of the law as a basis for their appeal.

Though the Kaipara rates situation is unique in its complexity the outcome could well bring about profound changes to the systems of many local bodies throughout the country.

The appeal will be heard in Wellington this Tuesday and Wednesday August 25-26. Sitting times will be 10am-4pm though hours may be extended if deemed necessary.

The MRRA expects their evidence will occupy most of the first day and possibly into the second, with the Kaipara District Council responding over the second day.

The case will no doubt create further interest among mainstream media which has followed the Kaipara saga closely over the past five years.

Support has come from far and wide with, apart from MRRA representatives, over 20 attendees are expected at the Wellington court to bolster numbers.

For those wanting first-hand coverage of events, the Auckland Court of Appeal hearing centre has been made available with a direct video feed organised at no charge.

There are now enough people to justify running a bus to Auckland in the morning and back that evening removing the need to find parking in unfamiliar territory. Drop off and pickup will be at the door of the Court, 280 Queen St, Auckland.

Either way the resultant decision should be a step towards a final ruling and a conclusion to the matter for Kaipara though it is unlikely to appease all parties.