As a ratepayer of Tauranga for some 40-plus years, I am disgusted that Minister Nanaia Mahuta has, in her wisdom, decided to delay the Local Body Elections in Tauranga until July, 2024. The four Commissioners appointed by her are being handsomely paid $6300 per day, and are not answerable to the ratepayers of Tauranga. That is totally unacceptable to me. Should the Commissioners stay in place, I will give serious consideration to refrain from paying my rates. I believe that I will not be the only Tauranga ratepayer who will consider this option.

I demand that democracy be returned to the ratepayers of Tauranga, so that we all have the right to vote and are able to have a say.

R Steele, Tauranga City.