Final days: don’t let others speak for you

People in Selwyn who have not yet had their say on Selwyn District Council’s draft Annual Plan 2026/27 have until Sunday night (26 April) to make their voice heard.

The public consultation is now in its final week, and the Council is urging people to ensure their community voice is represented in the feedback, with Kā Mānia Rolleston Ward making up most of the 360 submissions received so far (37%).

Tawera Malvern Ward which includes Darfield, Hororata, Springfield and Castle Hill, has made the most submissions per capita, with Kā Puna Springs and Kā Mania Rolleston in equal second, and Te Waihora Ellesmere in fourth place.

Selwyn District Mayor Lydia Gliddon says making a submission helps inform Council when they are making decisions on the annual plan and it is important that Councillors hear from every community throughout the district.

“With consultation closing soon, it’s a great time to see a bit of friendly competition between our towns. Every submission helps tell the story of what each community cares about, and there’s still time to be part of that.”

People are being asked which weighted average rates increase option is the right choice for the district (6.5%, 5.4% or 4.9%), and what they think of the Council’s $9.2 million cost-savings initiatives.

This includes increasing fees and charges for dog registration, fitness classes and building consents; scaling back the Economic Development Programme; changing the Capital Works Programme; reducing funding to a number of community grants and some Council events; reviewing the District Park project set for Rolleston; and reducing Council operating costs which would see some facilities closed during the Christmas/New Year period and on public holidays, and reduced Council-run library programmes and exhibitions.

To see the full proposals and have your say, visit the Council website selwyn.govt.nz/annualplan. Submissions are welcome until 11.59pm Sunday 26 April.

Last modified: 21 Apr 2026 2:39pm