Policies

Compare the parties’ positions on the key issues this election. Explore their policies and see how closely they align with your own views and priorities.

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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.

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  • Be mindful of rates affordability and drive efficient and effective delivery of services on time and within budgets.

  • Continue significant Local Water Done Well projects, particularly as council does not meet consenting conditions, with approximately 60% of debt transferring to the new entity.

  • Wait and understand new earthquake legislation coming from central government before embarking on new upgrades.

  • Conduct a line-by-line assessment of all expenditure to balance the budget.

  • Insist on maximum value for ratepayer money.

  • Pay off debt during the lifetime of the asset it is borrowed for.

  • Base fees and charges on cost-revenue matching for activities, apply probative investment policy, and match investments and debt to cash demands.

  • Match meaningful financial management to complex changing demands on council and outcomes using programme cost concepts and risk analysis.

  • Set rates having regard to optimal, efficient and equitable recovery of private enterprise accountability and pay recognising increased skills.

Get across the policies, candidates and parties

Don’t know who to vote for? Policy.nz is the complete guide to the 2025 local elections. Compare the candidates and policies to see where you stand.

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