Legal expenses to fight council overreach
Help this West Coast battler to stand up to council overreach.
Hokitika, West Coast
Wayne Kroupa (70) is being questioned by Westland District Council (WDC) for building work done 20 years ago that he understood he had permission for at the time.
The work was under an approved building consent and always intended as a place for him to park and live in his house bus. With the support of the council inspector he made changes to live in the property which already had a bathroom and septic tank system approved.
In July 2023 WDC issued a NTF. This was reversed by a MBIE determination 2024-029 issued 7 June 2024.
https://www.building.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/resolving-problems/determinations/2024/2024-029.pdf
WDC have come back for another go despite some 15 months after their first awareness of the matter (contrary to s378 of Building Act time limitation).
The WDC want to inspect under s222 but this only allows for an inspection for limited reasons. The council claim they must have "unrestricted access".
Wayne doesn't stop them if they agree to the strict limitations on s222. He needs to go to court on 30 October to defend his rights and the council have engaged top lawyers.
Wayne needs a legal advocate to put his case.
This issue has wide ranging implications for homeowners with councils through out NZ working outside the strict powers under s222 allowing council overreach and injustice for owners.
Alan Light's involvement (page creator)
I am a building consultant experienced in compliance disputes. I have been helping Wayne without recompense since 2023 trying to get justice for him. This included overturning court fines, the NTF the determination. this recent court order and more....
Use of funds
The legal costs and disbursements of a barrister. What ever is raised will be spent on legal costs only.
Latest update
extension of give alittle 21 March 2025
we have now lodge and application for a determination from MBIE on the issue of a NTF for a change of Use allegation which is denied.
Your on going support is appreciated and I will keep you informed.
We have also made a cost claim against WDC for withdrawing the S227 court order application and are awaiting this decision.
It is possible that we will fall short of required funds and need ongoing support for the determination but you will be informed of any developments.
Thank you again for your continued support and you have made a difference even if the council has avoided court scrutiny to date.
Latest donations
thank you this is really appreciated we are still banging heads with WDC and looking to go for another determination
Thank you for the support and please spread the word
Thank you for the support and please spread the word
Thank you for the support and please spread the word
Thank you for the support and please spread the word
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