West Coast Regional Council

Westland Constituency
The West Coast Regional Council makes decisions about managing resources in the region, such as air, water, soil and the coastline. It also carries out plant and pest control, helps prepare for natural disasters, and is involved in regional transport. The council is made up of seven councillors. Councillors are elected to represent constituencies (areas in the region). Two councillors will be elected from the Westland constituency. This is a first past the post (FPP) election, so you vote by ticking the name of your preferred candidate on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the West Coast Regional Council election.

Rates and revenue

The work of local government is funded mainly by property taxes in the local area, known as rates. This makes up around 60% of council expenditure, with the rest coming from user charges, investment income, regulatory fees and roading subsidies. Councils can also borrow money to spread the cost of large investments such as infrastructure over a longer period of time.

Rates and revenue

The work of local government is funded mainly by property taxes in the local area, known as rates. This makes up around 60% of council expenditure, with the rest coming from user charges, investment income, regulatory fees and roading subsidies. Councils can also borrow money to spread the cost of large investments such as infrastructure over a longer period of time.

  • Advocate for financial assistance from government for the additional work they are requiring local and regional authorities to undertake.

    Prevent expenditure without ensuring that those who benefit and pay are aware of all the costs.

    Advocate for the government to reinstate the river control subsidies to enable protection scheme to be maintained to an acceptable standard.

  • Ensure effective and efficient business practices to minimise the need for any rate rises, while delivering on statutory obligations.

    Operate the WCRC in a financially sustainable manner, charging fairly for rates and services, and having a sound but lean balance sheet.

    Strongly lobby government for some local contribution to maintain services towards the large DOC estate in the region which is not rated.

  • Advocate for financial assistance from government for the additional work they are requiring local and regional authorities to undertake.

    Prevent expenditure without ensuring that those who benefit and pay are aware of all the costs.

    Advocate for the government to reinstate the river control subsidies to enable protection scheme to be maintained to an acceptable standard.

  • Ensure effective and efficient business practices to minimise the need for any rate rises, while delivering on statutory obligations.

    Operate the WCRC in a financially sustainable manner, charging fairly for rates and services, and having a sound but lean balance sheet.

    Strongly lobby government for some local contribution to maintain services towards the large DOC estate in the region which is not rated.