Whakatāne District Council has adopted its audited Annual Report for the 2024/25 financial year at a Council meeting held on 19 November 2025.
The Annual Report outlines Council’s performance across more than 30 services, managing approximately $1.6 billion in community assets. It provides a transparent account of how Council has delivered services and invested in infrastructure during a year marked by economic pressures and regulatory reform.
Chief Executive Steven Perdia says the report reflects the Council’s commitment to maintaining critical services and managing resources responsibly in a challenging environment.
“Despite the pressures of inflation and shifting regulatory requirements, Council has remained focused and responsive,” says Mr Perdia. “We’ve continued to invest in the services our communities rely on most: water, transport and solid waste. These combined accounted for over 80% of our capital expenditure.”
Throughout the year, Council made significant progress in climate resilience, infrastructure and community wellbeing. Solar panels were installed on five key Council facilities, including the Civic Centre, helping reduce emissions and lower energy costs. Emergency supplies were deployed across the district to support preparedness. The Mimiha Stream Bridge replacement was completed, and wastewater services were improved through upgrades to the Ferry Road pump station and refurbishment of over 4,000 metres of sewer pipes. Te Kōputu - Whakatāne Library and Exhibition Centre delivered over 150 activities and issued more than 160,000 items and aquatic centres across the district welcomed over 166,000 admissions.
During the reporting period, Council achieved 58% of its performance targets, down from 72.5% the previous year, due to new measures and evolving benchmarks. However, resident satisfaction remained steady, and 73% of mandatory measures were met. Council monitored performance using 69 indicators, including 33 mandatory measures required under the Local Government Act 2002.
The Annual Report also outlines Council’s adoption of a standalone business unit model for water services, aligning with national reforms under Local Water Done Well.
Mr Perdia acknowledged the contributions of staff, councillors, iwi partners, volunteers and residents.
“This report helps build appreciation for the scale and complexity of Council’s work. It shows where we’ve delivered well and where we need to improve, and it reinforces our commitment to serving the district and planning for the future.”
The full Annual Report and summary will be available within one month from the time of adoption at https://whakatane.govt.nz/annual-report
