13 July 2004
It’s all in the numbers
If you’ve ever wondered who makes sure we all have the right street number, it’s the Council.
A new local bylaw amendment will have residents checking if their official building number matches that of their
letterbox. The amendment enforces minimum size requirements for number markings on all buildings in Waitakere City.
For most people, it will mean a quick check and very little hassle. Compare the number on your letterbox with the
property location contained in your rates account. If the numbers are different ring the Council Call Centre on 839 0400
to sort out the inconsistency.
If you do need to change your number, New Zealand Post will provide a two month free redirection service to residential
households.
Emergency services such as the Fire Service have had trouble in the past identifying commercial residences. While many
have a postal box for their mail, their buildings are often not signposted, in particular Chief Fire Officer for
Waitakere District Bill Ellis says, “Correct markings on buildings will save lives. Fires double in size with every
minute we lose trying to find the right address, causing considerable extra loss and extra risk to life.”
Councillor Derek Battersby, Chairman of the Emergency Services Special Committee, says, “This amendment is in the
interests of public safety for the people of Waitakere City. Easier recognition of buildings means emergency services
can act quicker and with greater efficiency.”
Why is it important to have the right number on your letterbox? Here are four reasons why; Misdirected mail should
become a thing of the past. The emergency services will be able to find the right place first time. To ensure prompt and
accurate information on your property. The Council must provide an accurate database to Land Information New Zealand
(LINZ) as part of a national standard.
The new minimum sizes for markings are: Residential buildings must be marked with characters 50mm or more high and 30mm
or more wide. All other buildings must be marked with characters 75mm or more high and 40mm or more wide.
ENDS