Positive result for adopted Annual Report

Waitomo District Council’s 2025/26 Annual Report has been adopted, confirming a positive result for the financial year.

The report received an unmodified opinion from Audit NZ, which provides independent assurance of Council’s financial statements.

This is the first annual report of the current Council elected in October 2025 which has brought together a mix of new and existing members.

It is also the last annual report where water and wastewater activities sit directly under Waitomo District Council. Waikato Waters Ltd will report on these activities going forward.

Mayor John Roberston says WDC sits in a good fiscal position at year end despite the many challenges.

“This year we have continued to be faced with local government reforms including future rates capping, the possibility of council amalgamations and dealing with extensive damage to our roading network after another severe weather event.

“We faced many pressures as did other councils, but we have continued to deliver essential services and invest in our communities which has reflected favourably in the results of our annual residents survey.”

The most significant impact on the district has been the damage caused to 120 sites on the roading network following an extensive flooding event in October 2025, which resulted in one of Council’s largest annual programmes and more than $15 million capital investment made into the local roading network.

The district has suffered significant flooding events each year for the past four years with the majority of repairs funded by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA). Further funding and repairs will be required.

Financial Performance

Overall, the financial statements reflect a positive result for the 2025/26 year, including a significant capital spend completed for the year.

Council net debt is similar to last year and now sits at $32.6 million. The operating surplus was $9.2 million mostly due to external funding for capital projects.

“Council remains committed to delivering the best possible outcomes for our community while keeping you informed about Council’s work, projects and decisions,” says John.

Visit our publications page to read the Annual Report 2025/26.

-ENDS-