Taupō
District Council has voted to introduce the living wage, as part of its
deliberations on the Long-term Plan 2021-2031.
Mayor
David Trewavas said the decision to move to a living wage was an important one
for the community as a whole.
“The
living wage allows our people to support themselves and their families. I believe this decision further strengthens
our commitment to our people and the Taupō District community we serve,” he
said.
Chief
executive Gareth Green thanked the council for its decision.
“I
am very thankful to our Mayor and Councillors for recognising that this is the
right thing to do and making this brave decision.
“I
believe that paying our people at least an amount that is what is required to
live is the right thing to do. It is, I believe, the minimum that we need to do
to be able to reflect our values as an organisation and as a community,” he
said.
The
introduction of the living wage will be set at the new rate of $22.75 per hour
and will benefit around 135 employees. It will come into effect from 1 July
2021.