Note: There is a correction to an insight reported on page 29 of the pre-election report (page 22 of the text version). The report notes that Wellingtonians aged 18-29 are more likely than those aged 60+ to agree that Council’s decisions are in the best interest of the city. This insight is accurate, however the actual agreement percentages shown for the two age groups are incorrect – it should say that “32% of Wellingtonians aged 18-29 agree the Council’s decisions are in the best interest of the city, vs 7% aged 60+”.
Challenges
The report includes analysis of four key interdependent challenges Wellington is facing:
Rates affordability and financial constraints
Wellington City Council faces significant financial challenges due to rising living costs, limited revenue streams, and increasing infrastructure and service delivery expenses, making it difficult for the Council to maintain rates affordability while meeting community expectations.
Elected members will need to make hard decisions about what to invest in, when, and where, to help manage rising costs.
Caring for infrastructure
Wellington’s ageing infrastructure, including roads, pipes, and public buildings, is under increasing strain from seismic risks, climate change, and shifting demographics, requiring significant investment to maintain safety, accessibility, and resilience.
The new Council will make key infrastructure decisions through the development of the 2027-37 Long-term Plan Infrastructure Strategy.
Involving the community
Trust in Wellington City Council’s decision-making is low, with many residents expressing dissatisfaction due to concerns about spending priorities and how decisions are made.
Elected members will need to consider how they will engage the community in ways that encourage trust and involvement in decision-making, ensuring these processes are transparent and focused on achieving the best outcomes for current and future generations.
Central government reform impacting local government
Central government reforms, such as changes to water services, resource management, and transport funding, are creating uncertainty for local government.
Elected members will need to engage with upcoming reform and understand their roles and possible influence.
Activity areas
The report outlines the Council’s governance structure and role, partnership with mana whenua, and strategic direction set through the Long-Term Plan.
It includes an overview of the Council’s activities, including what we do, and the opportunities and challenges in each activity area for the upcoming triennium. Each activity also outlines the major projects in that area. The activity areas outlined are:
Water
The way water services are delivered is changing in response to the Government's Local Water Done Well legislation. Wellington City Council has agreed to set up a new multi-council-owned organisation to deliver water services.
Transport
Due to national funding constraints, the National Land Transport Plan funding allocation was $68m less than expected. The council has reprioritised unfunded work, and will need to consider the diverse needs within the transport activity as part of future plans and budgets.
Urban development
Elected members will need to consider how to manage and respond to earthquake-prone Council buildings and the proposed new Planning Act and Natural Environment Act.
Waste
Wellington's waste management system is being overhauled to align with the Zero Waste Strategy. The introduction of kerbside organics collection, and the completion of the Sludge Minimisation Plant are key initiatives to reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and support a circular economy.
Nature and conservation
The council is focused on enhancing Wellington's natural spaces to support biodiversity and provide health and wellbeing benefits. Initiatives include the Coastal Reserves Management Plan and partnerships with conservation organisations like Predator Free Wellington and Capital Kiwi.
Economic and cultural wellbeing
The city is investing in arts, culture, and economic development to boost its vibrancy and attractiveness. Projects like the Town Hall strengthening and the City Safety and Wellbeing Plan support city revitalisation, attracting visitors and supporting businesses.
Social and recreation
The council is committed to providing high-quality social and recreational facilities, including libraries, pools, and community centres. The opening of Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui Central Library and the implementation of the Community Facilities Plan are key initiatives to support community wellbeing.
The report outlines the financial performance of the Council. This includes an overview of the Council’s financial performance, including financial position, investment in infrastructure, financial statements, and performance against financial strategy.
Contact us
Electoral Officials
Email: election@wcc.govt.nz