The report covers activity from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025 — a period that included the city’s return to democratic governance just one month into the financial year.
Mayor Mahé Drysdale says the newly elected Council committed early on to delivering positive community outcomes and value-for-money for ratepayers.
“While much of what’s in the 2024/25 Annual Report reflects an inherited work and investment programme, during this time we worked hard to reassess the council's priorities and reduce costs across all areas — locking in savings for future years,” he says.
The Annual Report includes financial performance information, details of projects and services delivered, and progress towards council’s strategic goals for the people of Tauranga.
“The report shows the scale of investment and effort that went into making Tauranga a better place to live and visit,” Mahé says. “It’s a snapshot of where we’ve been, but our focus now is firmly on where we’re going. We’re committed to taking a value-driven approach while continuing to deliver for our people, so Tauranga becomes the best city in New Zealand.”
Mahé says annual reports are an important part of maintaining transparency and accountability.
“These reports show how rates are being invested to support an inclusive, thriving and well-connected city, where our environment is enhanced and supported.”
Highlights from the 2024/25 Annual Report include:
- Completion of key projects such as the Haumaru Sport & Recreation Centre, waterfront destination playground and harbourside walkway in the city centre, and Arataki Bus Hub
- Adoption of the Tauriko West Plan Change, paving the way for much-needed new homes in the west of the city
- Investment of $415 million in infrastructure and projects – 19% below budget due to underspending and a shortfall in delivery
- Net debt of $1.3 billion – 10% ($138 million) less than budgeted
- Delivery of 106 funded events, attracting over 220,000 attendees and generating $21 million in visitor spending
- Progress with Te Manawataki o Te Papa civic precinct, SH29 Tauriko Enabling Works, and the Papamoa East Interchange
- 60km of roads resealed, 500 potholes repaired and safety and accessibility upgrades along Maunganui Road
- 9.5km of wastewater pipe rehabilitation and watermains renewals and 38,274 tonnes of kerbside waste collected
- A 43% reduction in council’s operational carbon emissions since 2018/19.
A full version of the 2024/25 Annual Report, along with a highlights document, is available at www.tauranga.govt.nz/annual-report-2024-25.