Appointed Auditor Dereck Ollsson described the audit as smooth, with no significant issues identified.

Council recorded a net surplus of $26 million, compared with a budgeted surplus of $36 million. The surplus is generally attributed to development contributions and vested assets transferred to council from development within the district. Net assets increased by $26 million to $2.682 billion, reflecting the surplus and the revaluation of roading and three waters infrastructure. Borrowing was $225 million, $31.6 million below budget.

Council invested $56.4 million in capital projects during the year, with capital expenditure $33.7 million below budget.

Mayor Dan Gordon said the Annual Report was a strong endorsement of Council’s performance and the way it has continued to deliver for the district.

“This is a very positive result for Waimakariri. There has been a lot of uncertainty around the future of local government, but through that our Council has remained financially responsible, continued to invest in the services and infrastructure our communities rely on, and kept delivering for the district.

“I’m proud of what our Council and staff have achieved and the way they have stayed focused on our community while positioning Waimakariri well for the future.”

The Council’s 4.98% average rates increase was among the lowest in the country, while Fitch Ratings reaffirmed Council’s AA credit rating with a Stable Outlook, recognising a prudent approach to debt, rates and long-term investment.

Chief Executive Jeff Millward said the result reflected the capability of Council’s people, strong systems and a shared commitment to serving the community.

“A smooth audit and a strong balance sheet do not happen by accident. They reflect careful governance, strong financial management and the professionalism of staff right across the organisation,” Mr Millward said.

“This year asked a lot of our teams. We have had to lead through significant change while continuing to deliver the everyday services our residents rely on.

“I want to acknowledge our elected members, our finance team and staff across Council for the way they have continued to manage those changes, keep things moving and put our community at the centre of their work.”

Council achieved 75% of its performance measures during the year. While this was very slightly below the previous year’s 77%, a number of measures were affected by factors including cost pressures, growth, transition to new infrastructure, resourcing and contractor capacity, and improvements being made to data recording.

Work is now underway on the Long Term Plan 2027-2037, with community consultation planned for March 2027.