Rodney residents are being asked for feedback on a proposed average rates increase of 7.9 per cent as part of consultation on Auckland Council’s Annual Plan 2026/2027.
The annual plan builds on the council’s long-term direction and outlines how Auckland Council will invest in the year ahead. It includes $3.9 billion for capital projects across the region and $5.3 billion to deliver essential services such as transport, water, waste, parks and community facilities.
A major milestone this year is the opening of the City Rail Link (CRL), which will significantly improve Auckland’s public transport network. The added annual costs to operate and maintain the CRL are a key reason for the proposed rates increase.
Rodney Ward Councillor Greg Sayers says community feedback is an important part of the process.
“This plan is about making sure we invest wisely while keeping the council on a stable financial footing.
“We’re continuing to invest in transport and water infrastructure while also supporting the work local boards do in their communities.
“The proposed 7.9 per cent rates increase for the average residential property is one of the key things we want feedback on.
“Please take a look at what’s proposed and tell us what you think. Your feedback helps us understand if we’ve got the balance right.”
In Rodney, the Rodney Local Board oversees local services that support and strengthen communities. This includes parks, libraries, community facilities, local events, environmental programmes and support for community groups.
Each local board sets its priorities and budget within the funding provided by the council’s Governing Body.
Rodney Local Board priorities
Local board chair Guy Wishart says Rodney has received an additional $1.5 million in operational funding through the fairer funding approach, but careful decisions are still needed.
“Our priority is to keep delivering the core services people rely on and to invest in projects that protect Rodney’s unique character.
“This includes looking after community assets like public toilets, sports fields, carparks and rural accessways. We also want to support local events, arts and recreation programmes that bring people together.
“We’ll continue backing our volunteers and environmental groups and investing in libraries and community hubs so they remain welcoming places to learn and connect.”
Wishart says the board will also continue to advocate for improvements to rural roads through the Unsealed Roads Improvement Programme, even though transport decisions sit with the Governing Body.
“Good rural roads are important for safety and for our local economy. We’ll keep pushing for progress in this space.
“We encourage everyone to have their say. Your feedback helps us make decisions that reflect Rodney’s needs and aspirations.”
Rodney residents can read the full draft Annual Plan 2026/2027 and share their views before consultation closes on 29 March 2026 at the AK Have Your Say website.
Have your say
Feedback can be provided online, by email, by post, or in person at a Have Your Say event. Visit the AK Have Your Say website to read the full proposals, find event details, and register to attend a session where you can speak directly to elected members.
- Helensville Drop-in Session, Helensville Showgrounds, 63 Railway Street, Helensville on Sunday 15 March, 8.30am to 12pm.
- Rodney hearing-style event, Rodney Local Board office, 3 Elizabeth Street, Warkworth on Wednesday 18 March from 4pm. Please register for this event.
After consultation closes, the Governing Body and local boards will consider all feedback before agreeing the final plan, which takes effect from 1 July.