Council Chaos

PONSONBY RATEPAYER LEFT BAFFLED BY $400 'STRATEGIC VIBES'

_Local resident questions Auckland Council's financial priorities after discovering a baffling line item._

By Margaret Henderson, Senior Correspondent · Ponsonby · 1 week ago

In a classic tale of Auckland Council absurdity, a Ponsonby ratepayer has uncovered a near $400 expense labelled 'strategic vibes' on their latest rates bill. This discovery has left many wondering if the Council is consulting with a group of seagulls for their urban planning strategies. Gerald would have had a laugh over this one — he always said the only vibes that mattered were the ones emanating from the back garden and a good bottle of pinot.

Reader Letters

Sharon Ngatai

Honestly, 'strategic vibes'? It sounds like they’re just throwing buzzwords around to justify wasting our hard-earned money. I’d much rather they focus on real issues like potholes or the rubbish collection schedule.

Trevor McLeod

Listen, I’ve been getting strategic vibes from my neighbour's barbeque smoke since summer started, and I didn’t need a council bill for that! At this rate, I expect a charge for ‘aesthetic taco Tuesdays’ next.

Wayne Patterson

Well, if the council is paying for strategic vibes, why can’t they add in 'good times' or 'happy thoughts' on my rates bill too? I’d certainly appreciate some positivity on my next payment.

Linda Chen

I just don't get it. If 'strategic vibes' cost $400, can I get a refund on all the bad vibes I’ve been receiving from roadworks? That should be worth a few hundred at least!