GOVERNMENT VALUATIONS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 13780, 19 June 1908, Page 6

GOVERNMENT VALUA TIONS.

«*»— CONDITIONS IN WELLINGTON. [BY TELEGRAPH.PRESS ASSOCIATION.] .♦ / Wellington, Thursday! Concerning Mr. Justice Edwards' statement at Auckland yesterday that sometimes Government' valuations) were " monstrously and preposterously high," and that Wellington was over-assessed,',' a Post reportermade inquiries at the Valuation Office this morning, and was informed that the valuations for Wellington city properties are below the selling values. This fact can. be demonstrated by an examination of the sales register. It is pointed out by the Valuation Office that it lias nothing: to do with an increase in,local rates, and that an increase in valuations does not .mean that local rates and taxes are increased. The requirements of a local authority have to be met whether the valuations are high or low. In Wellington, as compared with other cities, it is submitted that values must be higher than elsewhere, particularly in the business parts oi the city. The increase of shipping facilities, activity on the part' of local authorities, tramway extension, the opening up of the interior, and Wellington's central position, all combined to enhance values. It .is understood that a revaluation will probably take place in Wellington in the near future, with a view to adjusting values.