In the rush to create a combined district council there has been a reluctance to share with ratepayers that Western Bay District Council was named as one of the four councils in New Zealand most likely unable to pay its debts.

Couple that with the Tauranga City Council, which is also heavily debt ridden, and ratepayers would be in for massive increases if we allow this project to proceed.

Has council forgotten that in 2014 they voted unanimously against the creation of a separate Maori seat on council and recommended that no Maori Ward be established in the 2016 elections? Maori currently have 15 paid member representations with Tauranga Moana Tangata Whenua Collective for $10,000 in fees plus an annual grant. They also have separate Kaumātua Forum input and representation on the various working groups. If, as some of your correspondents imply, that is not sufficient consultation, consider that of half of those who call themselves Maori, only 3% bothered to vote.

Most are satisfied with the status quo. Ratepayers of all ethnic groups do not need more paid separate representation.

We also need to say no to a National government whose appeasement policy to iwi has given away so many of the natural resources it was entrusted to hold in perpetuity for the benefit of all New Zealanders.

R. E. Stephens, Mount Maunganui.