It’s Annual Plan time: Help shape the future of Whangārei
Published on 07 April 2025
It has come to that time of the year when we look at what we have done since approval of the Long Term Plan and incorporate changes for this year's Annual Plan. That means we need your help in deciding on some important topics again.
We are asking for feedback on some structural changes within the rating systems, along with asking for feedback on how you would like our Council to be structuring the water and wastewater services we offer, as part of our Local Water Done Well consultation.
These decisions will impact everyone, and it’s important we all understand what the questions are, and why we’re asking them.
Here’s a quick look at what's being asked.
Annual Plan 2025-26 consultation:
- Should everyone pay the same stormwater targeted rates?
- Should we reduce the Uniform Annual General Charge?
- Should we provide relief for owners of Farmed Business Zoned Land, through a contestable grant?
Local Water Done Well consultation:
- Should Whangārei stay in charge of its own water and wastewater, and then offer services to other councils?
- Should Whangārei, Kaipara and the Far North form a Council Controlled Organisation to manage the water and wastewater resources across the whole region?
Your feedback on these topics is vital to Whangārei’s development and, in relation to the Local Water Done Well consultation, vital to the growth of Northland and how our districts interact with each other.
While many may question the consultation process, public consultation is about getting everyone’s input before making any big decisions. This is true democracy.
Imagine Whangarei District Council as the head contractor in building a house. They need to know what the residents (the homeowners) want – maybe a new kitchen, an extra bathroom, or just a fresh coat of paint. When you provide your feedback, we can make sure we’re not installing a swimming pool when what you really need is a new roof.
Getting involved early in the consultation process also helps catch any problems and gives everyone, including those who might not usually speak up, a chance to share their thoughts.
We have implemented several methods of getting feedback during this consultation period.
We have made it as easy as possible for you to give your feedback and, if you have any questions about the topics, we’re always happy to work through them with you.
It’s natural to be passionate about a topic and care more about something when it affects you directly and, while things might not always go your way, it is hard to complain if you didn’t tell us what you wanted in the first place!
Have your say in shaping Whangārei’s future and see what your proposed property rates for 2025-26 would be under our preferred options.
Have your say
The Annual Plan 2025-26 and Local Water Done Well consultations both close at 5:00pm on Friday 2 May 2025.
