Western Bay of Plenty District Council has officially adopted its Annual Report for 2024/25, celebrating a year of major achievements and acknowledging the challenges faced along the way.
The Annual Report covers the 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025 period and provides a view of both Council’s achievements and the realities it faces. It shows that net debt has increased to $159 million, reflecting the scale of investment needed to support a growing District, while total income rose to $201.9 million.
Council’s performance measures are designed to be transparent and accountable, showing not just what was delivered, but how well it met its intended goals.
Western Bay Mayor James Denyer says Council’s focus on delivery, discipline, and determination has enabled real progress for the District.
“Through careful planning and strong partnerships, we’ve delivered more for our communities than ever before, while keeping debt growth under control and maintaining our AA credit rating for the seventh consecutive year,” says Mayor James.
“This report is a snapshot of the past year, but our focus is always forward - on building a better-connected, more resilient Western Bay.”
Highlights from the 2024/25 Annual Report include:
- Record investment: $134 million in capital projects, nearly triple previous years, delivering on community priorities.
- Major infrastructure upgrades: Roading improvements in and around Ōmokoroa, No.1 Road upgrade in Te Puke, and replacement of the No.4 Road bridge.
- Community spaces: Opening of Te Ara Mātauranga (Waihī Beach library and service centre) and Te Āhuru Mōwai o Hiria (elder housing in Katikati).
- Everyday essentials: Continued delivery of clean drinking water, safe roads, well-maintained parks, and libraries.
- Financial stewardship: Council kept a strong AA credit rating, turned last year’s deficit into a surplus, and started rebuilding its savings.
Challenges and lessons learned:
- Budgeting errors: Last year, Council made some mistakes with its budgeting. This led to a rates increase from the planned 7.4% to 8.9% for 2025/26. Council has reviewed what went wrong and is committed to making sure it doesn’t happen again.
- Economic challenges: The slow economy and lower growth meant less income, but careful management helped Council get back on track and finish the year with a surplus.
The Annual Report is not just a record of the past year - it’s a foundation for future progress. Council remains committed to learning from challenges, improving transparency, and partnering with its communities to deliver what matters most.
“Annual reports are an important part of maintaining transparency and accountability. They show how rates are invested to support thriving, well-connected communities.
“We know there’s more work ahead, and we’re committed to making practical improvements that matter for our communities,” says Mayor James.
