South Waikato District Council Adopts 2026-27 Annual Plan

South Waikato District Council on Thursday 25 June formally adopted its 2026-27 Annual Plan, confirming an average rates increase of 8.9%, in line with the direction set in the 2024–34 Long Term Plan.

The 8.9% average rates increase is driven by increased costs in delivering core services, inflation, and investment in critical infrastructure. The Council continues to explore efficiencies and reduce overheads where possible to ease pressure on ratepayers.

Council’s priorities for 2026-27 remain focused on achieving financial sustainability in the near future, whilst maintaining local service levels and quality of services delivered to our community.

Mayor Gary Petley says this continued approach towards financial sustainability is “starting to bear fruit,” as displayed in the Council’s financial performance report – now showing an operational surplus for the third consecutive month.

“While nobody wants to increase rates, it’s important to note that our District is in a far more positive position than many others around the country in this regard, with reduced increases forecast for the back end of this Long Term Plan period,” Mayor Petley said.

“Had we gone with a smaller increase, we faced having to consider some fairly major reductions to services and facilities we offer the community, which also would have been difficult for people.”

The Annual Plan serves as Council’s commitment to delivering core services and planning for the District’s future, while remaining fiscally responsible. The next Long Term Plan process will soon begin for 2027-37, which will require further public consultation in early 2027.

“We will continue to deliver on our Growth Strategy for South Waikato for 2026-27, with a key area of focus on the District Plan 4 Changes for urban growth. We’ll also be focused on getting our house in order for the incoming Government reforms on simplifying local government and rates capping,” Mayor Petley said.

Key points from the Annual Plan 2026-27:

• Average rates increase of 8.9%, in line with year three of the 2024-34 Long Term Plan
• Most urban residents will see a rates increase of less than the 8.9% average.
• Focus remains on maintaining the financial strategy set in the Long Term Plan.
• Continuing with rates billing and service requests for drinking water and wastewater services on behalf of Waikato Waters Limited until 30 June 2027.
• Council is tracking well towards rates capping targets mandated from 1 July 2029.

View the full 2026/27 Annual Plan here.