The 10-Year Long Term Plan sets the direction for the District and is formally reviewed and updated every three years. It describes the activities of Council and shows the whole picture of how the activities are managed, delivered and funded.
The current Long Term Plan is for the period 2024-2034 and was consulted on over April/May 2024.
Any significant amendments to the Long Term Plan before it is reviewed in three years (2027) will be consulted on in intervening Annual Plans. In any case Council will report on progress or any changes via Annual Plan documentation.
Key challenges for 2024-2034
- New uncertainties and costs: Adjusting to higher costs and funding challenges with new government reforms, requiring navigation within limited resources.
- Services and affordability: Prioritising essential services and projects, with more reactive maintenance, leading to potentially higher future costs and tough community choices on affordability.
- Resolution of three waters: Establishing a regional Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) for water services under the National led government's 'Local Water Done Well' model is a priority focus. Key issues such as how accumulated debt is handled, and price harmonisation (where everybody pays the same) need to be resolved.
- Capital works programme: Challenges in completing planned $221m capital works, risking increased costs, asset failures, and undelivered projects.
- Funding pressures: Difficulty obtaining grant and subsidy funding, with reliance on NZTA's FAR. Risks of reduced service levels if FAR decreases.
- Advocating for Ruapehu: Advocacy for community issues to ensure government policies support regional and rural objectives and wellbeing.
- Climate change: Addressing long-term impacts on agriculture, tourism, land use, population, and rating base, affecting safety, economy, and wellbeing.
- Maintaining township revitalisation: Investing in town and community projects to support resilient, sustainable communities despite financial constraints.
- Leadership and governance: Protecting the environment, building townships, supporting social cohesion, and managing community assets with effective communication.
- Easing the ratepayer burden: Seeking funding opportunities to alleviate pressure on ratepayers.
