AANZ has convened two meetings with a variety of the Accommodation Associations to discuss a campaign against Bed Taxes. The associations involved are Bed and Breakfast Association, Boutique Lodges and Hotels, Holiday Parks Association NZ, Hotel Council Aotearoa, NZ Hostels, TIA and YHA. Invitations have also been extended to Airbnb, Bachcare and Bookabach, as alignment across the industry is key. The initial meeting was convened in response to Mayor Goff’s call for a national bed tax. Further discussion will take place at the Accommodation Forum in February 2021.
An update from Ministers when they return is awaited as to where Short Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) sits with this government in terms of priorities. Information is awaited from Christchurch City Council on when hearings will take place regarding PC4 and PC5.
Fact Finding continues to understand what process Auckland City Council may follow with regards to the APTR remission that ceases on 31 March 2021. It is expected that reference will be included in the Auckland LTP due out on 23 February.
Accommodation Sector Chairs, Accommodation Board representative and myself are currently meeting monthly via zoom. If you have issues you would like raised prior to those meetings please do connect with them and let them know those concerns. The meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month so the next meeting is 10 March 2021.
Sally Attfield
GM - Accommodation