Kaipara District Council has unanimously adopted its Annual Plan for 2026/2027, confirming an average rates increase of 3.9% after growth.
The increase marks a significant reduction from the 8.9% originally forecast in the Long Term Plan, following a targeted effort by council to reduce costs in response to ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
Mayor, Jonathan Larsen said the result reflects a strong collective effort to ease the burden on households while continuing to invest in essential services.
“We know many households are feeling financial pressure, so reducing the rates increase was a key focus for council. At the same time, we need to keep investing in the services and infrastructure our communities rely on,” he said.
“We carried out a line-by-line review of the budget and brought the increase down from 8.9% to 7.9%. The message from our community was clear. Times are tough.
“That’s why we looked again at where we could find further savings to relieve that pressure.
“It’s been a real team effort from our elected members, and it puts us in a position where we can still deliver the work our communities expect in the year ahead. I also want to acknowledge and thank staff for the work they’ve done in a short time to help achieve this.”
The Annual Plan sets out council’s work programme and budget for the year, including a $54 million capital programme focused on growth, renewals, and service improvements.
Key work and initiatives for the year include continued investment in roading, with targeted resilience and sealing programmes to accelerate improvements and maximise external funding.
The Council says it will also support economic development through a $1.5 million contribution to the Te Tai Tokerau Water Trust pipeline, and has set aside $2 million for the Kaihu Valley Trail, subject to securing government subsidy. Ongoing maintenance and improvements to parks, open spaces and community facilities will continue, alongside the delivery and upkeep of core infrastructure and services.
Council also agreed to identify savings to repay $2.45 million of loan-funded roading renewals by June 2027, reducing longer-term cost pressures for ratepayers.
Council Chief Executive, Jazz Singh said the focus now shifts to delivery.
“This plan sets a realistic and responsible path for the year ahead. Our teams are focused on delivering key projects, maintaining services, and making sure we manage budgets carefully.”
He said the Council remains in a strong financial position, with a forecast surplus supporting planned roading investment and debt levels within prudent limits.
The Annual Plan for 2026/2027 comes into effect at the start of the financial year, with new rates taking effect from 1 July.
The finalised Annual Plan will soon be published on the council website, with printed copies to be available at council offices and libraries across the district in late July.
For more information contact media@kaipara.govt.nz.
