The number plate of the Taupō District's first mayor is for sale in an effort to take the pressure off ratepayers.
Former mayor Joan Williamson bought the personalised number plate — TAUPØ1 — in 1988. Joan was the mayor from 1986 until 2001. She died in March last year.
The number plate has been in storage for 23 years.
Williamson's son John, who is a Taupō District councillor, told Breakfast the Trade Me auction is a tongue-in-cheek way to get the public involved in consultation on the district's long-term plan. The proceeds of the sale of the number plate will go back into the community, he said.
"Only selling because we're having a clear out to free up some cash. It was either this or that giant metal fish. But the cost of postage on that would be intense..." the Trade Me ad reads.
The ad said the council wants to maintain the district's wastewater infrastructure, deliver safe and pothole-free roads.
"Wellington City Council may be selling shares to their airport; but we've got something way cooler that we invested in during the '80s up for grabs," the ad continues.
"Don't miss your chance to own this unique licence plate or to let us know what you think of our plan for the next 10 years to look after the essentials in the Taupō District."
Williamson said his mother would have loved the auction as she was a "community-minded person".
"It would be appreciated if it could go to someone who lives here for sentimental or nostalgic values, someone that's connected to Joan, or could go to someone who loves Taupō or to someone who lives elsewhere in the country but knows Taupō is the number one place to live or to visit."
The auction has generated a lot of interest. With a day to go until it closes, the current bid (as of publishing) is more than $2000.
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