Source: Northland Regional Council
Northland Regional Council’s latest Annual Report demonstrates a year of strong progress, resilience, and partnership, with significant achievements delivered for the benefit of Northland’s communities and environment, Chair Geoff Crawford says.
Chair Crawford says the 2024/25 year was marked by major milestones in flood protection, biosecurity, and climate resilience, as well as prudent financial management that kept rates lower than forecast.
“Northlanders have faced some real challenges this year, particularly with severe weather events, but our teams have worked alongside communities to deliver practical solutions and support where it’s needed most.”
He says among the year’s highlights was the official opening of the Otiria/Moerewa Spillway, a $7 million project that provides vital flood protection for local residents. (By leveraging central government and other funding, council reduced the cost of this work to local residents to approximately eight cents per dollar.)
Upgrades to the Quarry Road bridge in Kaitaia have also removed a key flood risk, strengthening the Awanui River scheme and helping keep people and property safe. (By leveraging central government funding, council reduced the cost of this work to local residents to approximately 12 cents per dollar.)
The council continued to lead the way in biosecurity, securing $6.2 million in government funding to tackle invasive exotic Caulerpa seaweed and carrying out extensive marine pest surveys.
The Predator Free 2050 programme made significant strides, with major pest control efforts at Whangārei Heads and in the Bay of Islands.
In response to the impacts of ex-Tropical Cyclone Tam and other severe weather, the council’s Civil Defence and response teams worked tirelessly to keep communities informed and safe.
A year-long project to improve flood resilience at 35 marae was launched, and $600,000 was allocated to support 22 community-led climate initiatives across the region.
The council also strengthened its partnerships, consolidating its investment in Marsden Maritime Holdings and Northport, and signing Northland’s first iwi-council Mana Whakahono ā Rohe agreement with Ngāti Hine to support greater tāngata whenua participation in decision-making.
Financially, the council adopted a 3.54% rates rise for 2025/26 – below earlier forecasts – thanks to efficiencies, savings, and surpluses.
“The council also continued to support local events, regional sporting facilities, and environmental champions through its funding and awards programmes.”
Chief Executive Jonathan Gibbard says the report reflects the council’s ongoing commitment to delivering value for ratepayers.
“We’re focused on investing in the things that matter; protecting our environment, supporting our communities, and building a resilient future for Northland.”
