The Christchurch City Council has confirmed a rate increase of 9.90%.

The Long Term Plan 2024–34 lays out Christchurch City Council’s programme for the next decade, the services the Council will provide, the projects the Council will complete and how they will be paid for.

It includes no cuts to services.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger said “I believe this LTP is a solid roadmap for the next 10 years, continuing to deliver the services our community wants, supporting efforts to improve our environment and reduce emissions, all while taking advantage of opportunities to support our city’s economy in the future.”

Mauger said the overall average rates increase of 9.90% is one of the lowest around the country, particularly amongst other city councils.

“For me, this is really important as every point lower means less coming from cash-strapped back pockets around the city. We have navigated these choppy financial waters in a relatively strong position.”

“This proposed increase includes a balanced budget, additional support for community organisations like the Arts Centre, Orana Park and the Santa Parade, and accounts for the costs associated with Te Kaha.

The 2024–34 Long Term Plan includes:

• An average residential rates increase for 2024/25 of 9.52%, which equates to an extra $6.17 a week on average.
• An average rates increase for all ratepayers of 9.90% for 2024/25.
• An average business rates increase of 10.90%, which equates to an extra $1,775 a year, or $34.14 a week.
• For an average remote rural property, a rates increase of 10.92% has been approved for 2024/25, which equates to $309 a year, or $5.94 a week.