Council asks for feedback on changes to Fees and Charges
Ōpōtiki District Council reviews its Fees and Charges each year and is currently seeking feedback on the draft schedule for the 2026/27 year. Most significantly this year, council is proposing changes to the way water services are funded from 1 July 2026.
Council’s Group Manager Service Delivery, Nathan Hughes, said that while most proposed fees and charges increase broadly in line with Consumer Price Index changes (around 2.5%,) volume-based charges for households connected to council water schemes in Ōpōtiki township, Ōhiwa and Te Kaha are proposed to increase more significantly (up to 84%).
“The consultation material outlines an emphasis on a user pays approach, with the general rate contribution reduced and greater emphasis placed on fixed targeted charges and metered charges. This continues the shift toward a system where households pay more as their water use increases,” Mr Hughes said.
Under the proposal, there will be a lower water component in General Rates, which will benefit all ratepayers, but households connected to one of the council supplies would notice a greater change.
The shift is also part of the changes with recent water services reforms, requiring council to more clearly separate or ‘ring-fence’ water service finances.
“The change also reflects community feedback we often receive from those not directly connected to one of the three Council schemes around perceptions about cross subsidization. It also moves towards a system where costs are clearly identified on a rates bill and better aligned with actual use,” Mr Hughes said.
The proposal currently out for feedback indicates that council is open to shifting a greater share of costs to the fixed targeted rate to help bring more balance to the proposal. This is where community feedback will be helpful to help inform that discussion.
The public are encouraged to provide their feedback on the proposed Fees and Charges, both these water-volume changes and other fees outlined in the document. More details are available on the council engagement website Connect | Hono Mai.
Feedback closes midday on Tuesday 14 April 2026. Final Fees and Charges will be considered for adoption at council’s Ordinary Meeting on 28 April 2026, with any changes taking effect from 1 July 2026.
