A new scheme's being explored to help Wellingtonians who may struggle to afford a hefty rates rise

Wellington City Council's proposing a 14 percent rates increase for the next financial year, to help pay for earthquake strengthening, fixing broken pipes, sorting transport issues and improving social housing.

Mayor Andy Foster says they appreciate some will find that figure scary, and are looking at ways to ease the financial pressure.

He says across local government they're exploring a funding scheme that would allow borrowing for a number of reasons, to be paid back through rates over time.