Avocado grower rates deferral (13-14 September 2025 weather event)

MPI has classified the Bay of Plenty wind event on 13 and 14 September 2025 as a ‘localised event’.

Following the event, NZ Avocado Growers’ Association formally requested a rates and charges relief package from both Council and Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

Western Bay currently has a Rates Remission Policy for Natural Disasters and Emergencies. However, the event does not align with the criteria or policy for a rates remission for the following reasons.

• The policy provides relief where dwellings have been rendered uninhabitable for an extended period of time, or where there has been a significant long-term effect on the productive use of land.
• In the case of productive land, any remission must be based on evidence that there has been a significant long-term effect on productivity as a direct result of the disaster. Any remission would apply from 1 July of the following financial year, rather than as in-year rates relief.
• Given that the recent event primarily caused crop loss and the underlying productivity of the land is unlikely to be affected, the remission policy is not triggered. This approach is consistent with how Council has responded to previous weather events, most recently Cyclone Gabriel.

What rates support is being provided

Council acknowledges the impact this has had on the crops and livelihoods of affected avocado growers, and alongside Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council will provide support via:

• Rates deferral available until March 2026
• Flexible payment arrangement options
• Waiver of any penalties on your account

Applications will be assessed on a case by case basis, with the following criteria;

• The property must have been directly affected by the event and will need to provide evidence of the crop or income loss of greater than 80%
• The extent of insurance coverage or other compensation is available to mitigate the loss. If this was available, then deferment would not apply.

For further information, or assistance with the application form below, please email info@westernbay.govt.nz.