Museums thrown rates lifeline

Despite having more than 100 volunteers, Mangawhai Museum is struggling to make ends meet. Kaipara ratepayers will pay an extra $14 a year in a targeted rate, which will raise $185,000 annually to fund three museums – Mangawhai, the Kauri Museum and Dargaville. Council also agreed at its general meeting held in Mangawhai last Wednesday (May 28) to write off a $100,000 loan owed to it by Mangawhai Museum. The targeted rate decision was made after councillors listened to feedback on public consultation held earlier this year. Of the 388 submissions received, 36% did not want the rate introduced,...