Rates payment options extended

In a move designed to make it easier for ratepayers to meet their commitments, the Far North District Council has negotiated a "Bill Pay" arrangement with NZ Post.

From next week (20 October 2008) residents will be able to make rate account payments to the council at NZ Post Shop outlets across the district.

This will add an extra14 locations throughout Northland for council rate account payments, and provide over 300 outlets nationwide for non-resident ratepayers. The new payment service was initiated as a result of a ratepayer survey which indicated that 41% would be interested in paying rates at a NZ Post outlet.

For those ratepayers who also pay bills such as phone, power or car registration through NZ Post, this will mean just one trip for users, avoiding the need for a second trip to a council Service Centre.

"We are also investigating the possibility of providing for the payment of water and miscellaneous accounts such as parking infringements and dog registration through the same outlets. If this proves viable we will look to introduce the expanded payment option next year," Ian Sivyer, General Manager of Finance and Business said today.

"People will be able to meet their rates account by paying cash, cheque or eftpos. However credit card facilities will not be available at these external locations. Where arrangements have been made with the council for installment or part payment options, these can also be made through the NZ Post service as long as those using the service have a barcoded rates assessment notice with them.

"NZ Post will automatically transfer details of any payments made directly to the council overnight through the barcode on rate account notices," Ian Sivyer said.

The new service would be available for the second and subsequent rates installments. Because of a change to the barcode, the NZ Post Shop service would not be available for first installment (July) account payments.

Information on the new payment option can be found on the council's website at www.fndc.govt.nz or is available through the Call Centre at 0800 920 029.