Selwyn reduces rates rise to 4.5 percent in Annual Plan
Selwyn District Council media release: 30th June 2026
Selwyn District councillors have adopted the district’s Annual Plan on 30 June, confirming priorities, projects and investment across Waikirikiri Selwyn, including an average weighted rates increase of around 4.5 percent.
The Annual Plan sets out what Council will deliver over the next 12 months, and how this work will be funded, building on the direction set in the Long-Term Plan 2024–2034.
Mayor Lydia Gliddon says the plan reflects strong community feedback and a clear focus on balancing affordability with delivering essential services.
“This plan is about getting the balance right. We know households are feeling cost pressures, and we’ve worked hard to keep that front of mind while still investing in the infrastructure and services our district needs.”
Council agreed to a weighted average rates increase of 4.5% for the year. For households connected to Selwyn Water Limited water services, when drinking water and wastewater charges are included, the overall weighted average increase could be 8.8% for 2026/27.
“Inheriting a Year 3 Long-Term Plan is challenging, but councillors are focused on using this process to deliver significant change for our community as we embark on our next Long-Term Plan together.”
Key decisions for the year ahead
- Setting an average rates increase of around 4.5 percent.
- Deliver an $86 million capital programme, along with ongoing investment in water and wastewater projects delivered by Selwyn Water—supporting essential infrastructure.
- Committing to increased investment in land drainage and developing a fully integrated stormwater plan through the Long-Term Plan.
- Providing a $100,000 grant to support Lincoln town centre businesses impacted by Stage One works.
- Approving $160,000 to support the Sheffield Pool through the community trust, following completion of the land and pool settlement.
- Reducing funding for Council events, saving $107,000, and seeking external sponsorship opportunities.
- Adopting a greater user pays approach, including increases such as $8 for dog registrations and around 60 cents for some classes.
- Community facilities will have reduced hours on public holidays and over the Christmas period to manage costs while keeping key services available.
The Annual Plan confirms Council’s core work programme for the year, including continuing investment in infrastructure, maintaining essential services, and progressing key projects across the district.
Mayor Gliddon says Selwyn’s growth continues to present both opportunities and challenges.
“Selwyn is growing quickly, and with that comes real pressure on roads, water and community facilities. Our job is to make sure we’re planning ahead and delivering in a way that sets us up well for the future.”
She says community input has played an important role in shaping the final plan – with 964 submissions, and almost 100 people presenting their views to Councillors in person.
“We’ve listened carefully to what people told us through consultation and focused on what matters most – keeping services reliable, managing costs, and making sure Selwyn remains a great place to live.
“We know there are trade-offs, and not everything can be done at once. This plan focuses on what’s most important now, while keeping a close eye on affordability for our community.”
The latest Selwyn Annual Plan is available online, with copies available in Council libraries and service centres by the end of July.
Note: The “weighted average” means the average rates increase across the district sits at 4.5%, but the actual increase for each property may be higher or lower depending on factors like property value, location and the services that property uses.