Western Bay of Plenty District Council has confirmed its work programme and budget for the year ahead, adopting the 2025/26 Annual Plan.
This week councillors gave the final sign-off, with no changes made following deliberations earlier this month. The plan confirms an average rates increase of 8.92 per cent — slightly lower than the 10.13 per cent originally forecast in the Long Term Plan.
The Annual Plan sets out Council’s budget, priorities and key projects for the year ahead. It outlines how Council will fund and deliver essential services — from infrastructure to community facilities — while responding to changing costs and demands.
Mayor James Denyer says the plan reflects Council’s commitment to staying focused, spending wisely, and delivering the essentials.
In finalising this year’s plan, Council took a deliberate and considered approach to reducing spending, managing costs, and focusing on the essentials.
“Despite the tight fiscal environment, Council recognises the need to keep moving forward with a range of key projects across the District to strengthen local infrastructure, enhance community spaces, and support growth where it’s needed,” explains Mayor James.
Building on the achievements of almost-completed projects like Te Ara Mātauranga – the new Waihī Beach library and service centre, Heron Crescent elder housing, and the playground in Conway Reserve, Council is also moving ahead with a number of major projects across the rohe. These include significant upgrades to the Ōmokoroa and Te Puke roading networks, improvements to the Minden Lookout and surrounding facilities, staged delivery of the Tahawai and Beach Road concept plans, and starting the Dave Hume Pool upgrade in Katikati.
Alongside the adoption of the Annual Plan and setting the rates, Council also set its fees and charges including financial contributions from 1 July 2025.
