One of the country's smallest districts could face its highest rates rise this year. 

Waitaki District Councillors have voted to consult on a rates rise of up to 45% to address the council's deficit. 

It's also consulting on lower rates rises of 19% or 27%, which would leave the council still in the red. 

Waitaki Mayor Mel Tavendale told Mike Hosking she'd prefer a lower rates rise, but that wouldn't solve the council's issues. 

She says the council has a $14 million deficit and just 12 thousand ratepayers. 

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