Whangārei District Council

Hikurangi-Coastal General Ward
The Whangārei District Council provides local services and facilities, such as public transport, rubbish and recycling, libraries, parks, and recreation facilities. It also makes decisions about building and planning, local regulations, and infrastructure, such as water supply and sewerage. The council is made up of 13 councillors and the mayor. Councillors are elected to represent wards (areas in the district). two councillors will be elected from the Hikurangi-Coastal ward. This is a single transferable vote (STV) election, so you vote by ranking the candidates on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Whangārei District 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.

  • Balance services provided to the public with rate increases and the incurring of debt to fund everyday services through sensible financial management.

    Highlight risks of user pays if a rates cap is introduced, for example, having to pay more for going to the aquatic centre or clubs using sports fields.

    Use newly established Whangārei District Holdings to bring better returns from the commercial property portfolio to offset rate increases.

  • Balance services provided to the public with rate increases and the incurring of debt to fund everyday services through sensible financial management.

    Highlight risks of user pays if a rates cap is introduced, for example, having to pay more for going to the aquatic centre or clubs using sports fields.

    Use newly established Whangārei District Holdings to bring better returns from the commercial property portfolio to offset rate increases.