Auckland Council rate rises to be lower than expected

Auckland rates will now be one third of the previously projected increase. File photo / NZ Herald

Auckland Council rates increases are set to be lower than expected, Mayor Len Brown has announced.

While the projected rates increase following the amalgamation of the Auckland region's councils had been 9.3 per cent, Mr Brown has set a target maximum rates increase of 4.9 per cent.

"The updated budget now has a base rates increase of 3.7 per cent, approximately one third of the previously projected increase," Mr Brown said.

He said the lower than expected rates increase had been achieved "through $81 million of efficiencies and savings, without compromising services to the community".

- Herald Online