Upper Hutt Annual Plan Consultation Opens for Public Feedback
Published on 24 March 2025
Council is calling on the community to share their thoughts on the city's Annual Plan 2025/26 and other key issues, including the Government-mandated Local Water Done Well reform programme, which will impact the management of water services and infrastructure in our region.
Mayor Wayne Guppy says the Annual Plan will also inform the community on changes to the average rates increase and seek public opinion on options for kerbside recycling.
Other concurrent consultation topics cover Fees and Charges, an Alcohol Fees Bylaw, Revenue and Financing Policy changes and the Gambling Venues Policy review.
"It’s time to share your views on our Annual Plan and other important issues that will affect our city," says Mayor Guppy.
"This year, the Consultation Document looks a bit different from what you might be used to, and it covers several subjects, including the future of our water services.
“One of the most significant topics for consultation this year is the Local Water Done Well reform programme, which requires all councils to explore options for delivering water services.”
Mayor Guppy says Upper Hutt is working closely with other councils in the region to determine the best approach for the future management of water services.
"We’ve been working with our neighbouring councils to navigate the complex water reforms mandated by the Government.
"We must make improvements to our water services to ensure the future well-being of our community."
Mayor Guppy also acknowledged the ongoing cost-of-living pressures many residents continue to face, such as high interest rates, inflation, insurance costs, and fuel prices.
In light of these challenges, Council has focused on reducing costs where possible while maintaining essential services and infrastructure.
Council’s financial strategy remains committed to ensuring that today's income covers today's expenses to avoid burdening future generations with unnecessary costs, says Mayor Guppy.
"We want to maintain fiscal responsibility and avoid pushing costs onto future generations.
“We’ve made changes to our operating model and reprioritised our capital programme spending, which, along with other efforts, has allowed us to reduce the average rates increase to 15.78%.”
Mayor Guppy emphasised the importance of public engagement to help inform Council’s decision making.
"We take great pride in providing transparent engagement, and it’s essential that you have your say on the issues that impact your community,” he says.
“I encourage everyone to take the time to read through the consultation booklet, consider the options, and join us for conversations at the community engagement events listed at the back of the document."
Consultation is open from 24 March to 27 April.
For more information on the Annual Plan, concurrent consultation topics, and Local Water Done Well, visit https://letskorero.upperhutt.govt.nz/