Western Bay of Plenty District Council has officially adopted its Annual Report for 2024/2025, celebrating a year of major achievements and acknowledging the challenges faced along the way.

The Annual Report covers July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and provides a view of the 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.

The council’s performance measures were 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 said the 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.

“This report is a snapshot of the past year, but our focus is always forward – on building a better-connected, more resilient Western Bay.”

The highlights

Highlights from the 2024/2025 Annual Report:

Record investment of $134 million in capital projects, nearly triple previous years, delivering on community priorities.

Major infrastructure upgrades, including roading improvements in and around Ōmokoroa, No.1 Rd upgrade in Te Puke, and replacement of the No.4 Road bridge.

Community spaces – the opening of Te Ara Mātauranga (Waihī Beach library and service centre) and Te Āhuru Mōwai o Hiria (elder housing in Katikati).

Everyday essentials included the continued delivery of clean drinking water, safe roads, well-maintained parks, and libraries.

Lastly, in terms of financial stewardship, the council kept a strong AA credit rating, turned last year’s deficit into a surplus, and started rebuilding its savings.

Challenges, lessons learned

In a statement released on November 27, the council also mentioned its challenges and lessons learned.

Budgeting errors – last year, the council said it made some mistakes with its budgeting. This led to a rates increase from the planned 7.4% to 8.9% for 2025/2026. Council said it had reviewed what went wrong and was committed to making sure it didn’t happen again.

Economic challenges – the slow economy and lower growth meant less income, but careful management helped the council get back on track and finish the year with a surplus.

Denyer said the Annual Report is not just a record of the past year – it was a foundation for future progress. The 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.”

A full version of the 2024/2025 Annual Report is available at: www.westernbay.govt.nz/council/plans-policies-strategies-bylaws/plans/annual-reports/2024-25-annual-report