A public interest group hit with almost $50,000 in court costs over its opposition to the Mahinerangi wind farm has not yet decided whether it will pay the costs or challenge them.
The Uplands Protection Society had hoped to take legal advice on Monday but had not yet been able to arrange a meeting with its lawyer, spokesman Ewan Carr said yesterday.
The society was last week ordered by the High Court to pay $49,788.13 to five parties after a failed appeal to the High Court - $14,473 to the Central Otago District Council, $11,340.73 to TrustPower, $10,160 to the Otago Regional Council, $7954.58 to the Clutha District Council and $5859.82 to Meridian Energy.
When first approached about the costs, Mr Carr would not say whether the society had the money to pay.
The society's 2007-08 financial report filed to the national Incorporated Societies office shows the society had a deficit of $40,7186 on July 12.
In the report, treasurer Peter Doherty said the bank accounts were in "a sad state" and he was disappointed no members had donated money to the legal campaign, despite an appeal for funds.
Asked last night whether it was true the society had debts of $40,000, Mr Carr said he could not confirm that.
The society "went in and out of funds", depending on whether grants and donations had been received and bills had been paid.
However, it was fair to say the society did not have $49,000 in the bank, he said.
"Clearly, there will be another fundraising campaign to come."
TrustPower, the Clutha District Council and the Otago Regional Council have also filed applications for costs of $33,000 against the society relating to its unsuccessful Environment Court appeal.
TrustPower community relations manager Graeme Purches said a decision on those costs was expected early next year.
Mr Carr said the society had counter-claimed for $40,000 in costs from TrustPower.
"Who will have to pay costs is a matter for further deliberation by the court."
