Mayors left disappointed by National ruling out bed tax
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown says the decision raises serious questions about the government's commitment to the Regional Deal.
Auckland and Queenstown Lakes District mayors expressed disappointment over the National Party's decision to rule out the bed tax, despite the government's previous commitment to the matter. Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown criticized the party for failing to honor its promise as part of the Auckland Regional Deal. The bed tax, which wasn't a general tax but a user charge, was deemed a smart move to support the industry and attract more events, while not imposing additional rates or taxes on Aucklanders.
Queenstown Lakes District Mayor John Glover agreed, stating that the decision felt like a "complete u-turn" on policy. Glover highlighted the strain on infrastructure due to the influx of visitors, emphasizing the need for government support to manage this issue. Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell expressed surprise at the announcement, considering the bed tax was part of the deal.
She emphasized that councils without alternatives would continue to rely on ratepayer funds for tourism-related investments.
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