Taieri farmers took their protest about rate increases - in one farmer's case more than $16,000 a year - to the Otago Regional Council yesterday when 10 large tractors were driven through Dunedin to the council's Stafford St offices.
The farmers were due to take part in two meetings with councillors about their concerns over the increases, part of the Taieri Rating Review, which aims to have those benefiting the most from anti-flooding measures and drainage works paying more rates.
The review is due to be adopted as part of the council's annual plan at a meeting of the full council tomorrow. (WEDS)
Many farmers on the Taieri did not agree with the rating review and want its implementation delayed until a funding review was held next year and more consultation was carried out.
Farmer Ad Bekkers said the unusual method of transportation was ''the best way to make a statement to all councillors''.
