The Christchurch City Council is considering letting businesses and property owners delay paying their rates for six months.
Under the scheme being considered by council today, businesses that can show their revenue has declined by 30 per cent because of Covid-19 will be eligible for rates relief.
Owners of residential properties who have lost their job or who qualify for Government subsidised wages will also be eligible.
The Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce says rates relief is essential if affected businesses are to survive.
The chamber's chief executive Leeann Watson speaks to Susie Ferguson.
