The Otago Regional Council (ORC) is reminding ratepayers that penalty deadlines for non-payment of rates have changed.

ORC director corporate services Wayne Scott said the previous payment rules, which included a different due and penalty date, had caused confusion for many ratepayers.

All 2012-13 ORC rates are due for payment by close of business on Wednesday 31 October 2012.

A 10% penalty will be added to all unpaid rates outstanding on 01 November 2012. An additional 10% penalty applies for rates still remaining unpaid on 01 May 2013.

ORC ratepayers can pay their rates by credit card (a fee applies), online/telephone banking, by cheque or counter payment at any Post Shop, or at the council’s offices in Dunedin, Alexandra or Queenstown.

Mr Scott said an installment payment option by direct debit was also available.

For more information refer to our website www.orc.govt.nz or contact the ORC rates team on 03 479 6470.