Western Bay District Rates to Rise 8.92% in 2025–26

Western Bay of Plenty District Council has confirmed an average rates increase of 8.92% for the 2025–26 year, following agreement at last week's annual plan and long-term plan committee meeting. The figure is higher than an earlier indication of 7.42% but remains below the 10.13% average increase that had been forecast in the council's Long-Term Plan 2024–2034.

Mayor James Denyer said the revised figure reflects unavoidable cost pressures, including the need to rebuild reserves, address lower-than-expected regulatory revenue, invest further in water services, and settle weather-tightness claims. He emphasised that councillors had taken a careful, line-by-line approach to the budget to balance affordability with financial sustainability and continued service delivery.

Back in February, councillors agreed not to consult publicly on this year's annual plan, as no significant changes to the Long-Term Plan were proposed. Because the 8.92% increase remains below the 10.13% forecast, it also does not trigger a requirement for community consultation. Key projects progressing this year include the Minden Lookout, concept plans for Tahawai and Beach Rd, early work on a Dave Hume Pool upgrade, and roading improvements in Ōmokoroa and Te Puke.

The final annual plan is set to be formally adopted by the council on 26 June. Further information is available at westernbay.govt.nz.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).