The leaders of the Kaipara rates rebellion are increasing fund-raising efforts as they prepare to take their debt-ridden council to the High Court.
Mangawhai ratepayers believe they cannot be held liable for what they say was illegal borrowing by the council for their sewerage.
They have already raised nearly half the money they need for a judicial review next February.
Spokesperson Neil Tolich says Ratepayers' Association executive members have donated $25,000 and further donations of $30,000 have come in during the past week.
He says the case is important for ratepayers throughout the country, who feel powerless to stop their councils borrowing without proper consultation.
The case is set down for a hearing in the High Court in Whangarei in February next year.
