We are in the early stages of improving our website, and would love some feedback on how you use our site, and how it could be improved.
Published on 19 October 2026
Waitaki District Council is warning the community about third-party websites offering to apply for residential and commercial LIMs (Land Information Memorandum) or to view property files.
The sites, which offer to act on property owners and potential buyers' behalf, charge between 195% and an eye-watering 3226% more than the cost of applying directly. Then they make an application to Council using the existing public application process.
An example of the difference is offered below:
Service Offered
Waitaki District Council fee
Third-party site fee
Difference
Residential LIM
$440
$1299
+195%
Commercial LIM
$585
$2499
+327%
Property file
$15 owners / $45 non-owners
$499
+3226% / +1008%
Chief Executive Alex Parmley said, “At a time when finances are squeezed, we want to make sure the community don’t end up paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars more for a service that Council offers for a far lower price and a far faster turnaround.
Council’s building team is one of the best in the country and, while the statutory requirement for providing a LIM or property file is 10 working days, our team averages delivery in 7.8 working days.”
Anyone seeking a LIM or property file can apply by emailing the form available on our website to LIMs@waitaki.govt.nz, or by visiting our Service Desks in Waihemo Library & Service Centre, Oamaru Library and Service Centre, Council HQ, Waitaki Aquatic Centre or the Network Waitaki Event Centre.
Information about applying for LIMs or property file viewing can be found here.
ENDS
media@waitaki.govt.nz