Every property owner in the region contributes to our work programmes through their regional council rates. Horizons Regional Council is an entirely separate organisation from your city/district council. City and district councils are responsible for community services in your area, such as road maintenance, libraries, recreation areas and land use. Regional councils ensure sustainable use of the region's natural resources, lead regional land transport planning, contract passenger transport services, and coordinate regional responses to natural disasters and emergencies.
Before 2002, Horizons rates were collected on our behalf by the city and district councils. However, this changed to direct rating to provide ratepayers with greater clarity around how these rates are spent.
If you're looking for useful information to help you make a decision on a property (such as hazard information, flood history, etc), visit our District Advice page.