Horowhenua District Council has wrapped up the triennium with a sense of pride and reflection, adopting its Annual Report 2024/25 at the final Council meeting of the term on Wednesday 8 October.

Mayor Bernie Wanden said it was a special moment to close out three years of teamwork and progress.

“Yesterday’s meeting was a chance to reflect on the past three years and everything we’ve achieved together. I’d like to sincerely thank our retiring Councillors, Crs Brannigan, Proctor and Boyle and retiring Community Board members John Girling and Nola Fox for their dedication and service to our community. It’s been a privilege to work alongside you all.

“Adopting the 2024/25 Annual Report was a fitting way to finish the triennium, celebrating the progress we’ve made and the commitment of our staff who work hard every day for our community,” said Mayor Bernie.

The Annual Report 2024/25 reflects the first year of Council’s Long-Term Plan 2024-2044: Challenging Times, Challenging Choices, highlighting progress across major infrastructure, community and financial priorities.

Chief Executive Monique Davidson said the report represents a year of strong delivery and disciplined financial management.

“I want to thank our Councillors and staff for the hard work that went into preparing this year’s Annual Report. It’s a comprehensive reflection of what we’ve achieved together, despite the ongoing challenges of affordability and change.

“The results show real progress in strengthening financial discipline and keeping our focus on what matters most to our community.”

Key highlights from the 2024/25 year include:

• Strong financial performance, delivering an underlying saving of $800,000, exceeding the $300,000–$500,000 target.
• Capital delivery of just under $32 million, completing key water, wastewater and transport projects.
• Debt levels kept well within limits- net debt to operating revenue at 199%, under the 250% cap.
• Resident satisfaction up to 63%, continuing steady improvement.
• Nearly 9,900 digital water meters installed, helping detect leaks faster and save water.
• The successful move to an in-house Local Waters team, achieving $1.6 million in operational savings and preparing for the Local Waters Done Well reforms.
• Adoption of two new Community Plans: Foxton Futures (December 2024) and Shannon Ōtāuru (June 2025), giving locals more say in shaping their future.

The Annual Report 2024/2025 and summary will be available on Council’s website from 7 November 2025, in line with statutory requirements.

In the meantime the report is available from p15 onwards: Agenda of Council - Wednesday, 8 October 2025

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