Frequently asked questions
What is the draft Annual Plan?
The Annual Plan outlines what Council plans to deliver over the coming year, including the services we provide, the projects we invest in, and how these are funded.
How does this relate to the 10 Year Plan?
This Annual Plan represents year three of the 10 Year Plan 2024–2034. It largely continues what was already planned, with some updates to reflect current financial and legislative changes.
Why is Council talking about a “new course”?
Council is responding to financial pressures, Government reforms including rates capping, and cost-of-living challenges, such as rising fuel prices and general increases across goods and services.
These all highlight the importance of the work we’re already doing to contain rate increases for our communities.
In February 2026, Hutt City Council approved Adjusting Our Sails, a target operating model report that responds to dealing with the unprecedented change facing local government. It outlines a programme to reduce Council’s costs to reduce the rates burden, respond to cost pressures and prepare for rates capping. This will guide our decision-making over the next three years as we engage with our community about service reductions and asset divestment. No decisions have been made at this stage.
What rates increase is being proposed?
The proposed increase equates to $4.33 per week, or $225 per year, for an average household. The proposed increase is lower than what was signaled last year (9.5% compared to 12.9% after growth).
We have a handy tool at hutt.city/ratescalculator where you can see what your estimated Hutt City Council rates would be for 2026-27.
This increase will apply to the portion of your Hutt City Council rates bill that remains after water services charges are transferred to Tiaki Wai on 1 July. Tiaki Wai will invoice property owners separately. You can find out more at tiakiwai.co.nz and see your estimated water charges at hutt.city/watercalculaor
What is happening with water services and how will this affect my rates?
From 1 July 2026, water services will transfer to a new multi-council-owned organisation called Tiaki Wai and will no longer be included in your Council rates. Instead, you will receive a separate invoice from Tiaki Wai.
Tiaki Wai is seeking feedback on their draft Water Services Strategy, which includes pricing. Find out more at tiakiwai.co.nz
You can see your estimated water charges at hutt.city/watercalculaor
How much does Council need to save?
Council’s target operating model report Adjusting Our Sails identifies that Council needs to save around $24 million per year by 2034.
Will services or assets be affected?
Council will need to make service reductions and asset sales to meet savings targets, but no decisions have been made yet and there will be consultation with our communities about the necessary trade-offs over the next 15 months.
We’re starting the conversation now and you can share your thoughts on this as part of the engagement on the draft Annual Plan.
What is Council doing to reduce costs?
Council has already made $55 million in savings through the 10 Year Plan and Annual Plan processes and is continuing to find more efficient ways of working, including using technology and improving how services are delivered.
Are fees and charges changing?
Yes, fees and charges are proposed to increase to ensure that users contribute their share of the cost of services, see our draft Annual Plan document from page 145 onwards.
How will Government changes affect Council?
Proposed reforms, such as rates capping, could limit how much revenue Council can raise, impacting services, assets and infrastructure investment.
There are also potential changes to the local government system and planning laws, which Council is actively engaging with.
How do recent property revaluations affect my rates?
An increase or decrease in your property value doesn't necessarily mean you pay more or less in rates – it all depends on how your property’s value changes, compared to the average property value change across the city.
Revaluation helps us work out everyone’s share of rates, but it doesn’t change the total amount of rates that Hutt City Council collects.
An explainer video and more details are available at hutt.city/revaluation
What feedback is Council asking for?
Council wants to know if the proposed rates increase strikes the right balance between affordability and maintaining services, as well as views on fees, charges, and future service delivery.