Annual Plan 2026/27: delivery, affordability and readiness
Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) has adopted its Annual Plan 2026/27, confirming continued investment in essential service while limiting the overall rates revenue increase to 2.4 per cent.
Chair Dr Deon Swiggs said the plan had been developed during a period of significant uncertainty for local government, with major structural reforms and legislative changes proposed by Central Government.
"While there is ongoing uncertainty about the future shape of local government, our focus remains firmly on delivering the services Cantabrians rely on every day," Chair Swiggs said.
"Flood protection, environmental management and public transport are not optional. They are essential services that support the safety, wellbeing and prosperity of our communities."
Key priorities in the Annual Plan 2026/27
The Annual Plan sets out Environment Canterbury's priorities for the year ahead, including:
- protecting and enhancing natural resources
- supporting safe and reliable transport
- strengthening resilience to climate change and natural hazards
- maintaining strong partnerships with mana whenua, local authorities and communities.
Keeping rates increases affordable
Chair Swiggs said councillors had taken a disciplined approach to balancing investment in key services with cost pressures facing households and businesses.
"Councillors carefully reviewed expenditure and identified targeted savings to reduce the proposed rates revenue increase from 2.9 per cent to 2.4 per cent," he said.
"That reflects our commitment to affordability while ensuring we continue investing in the services and infrastructure that matter most to Canterbury."
The plan includes:
- up to $2 million of additional capital investment in flood protection works on the Waimakariri River network
- continued support for public transport improvements
- a one-off $100,000 increase to existing contestable biodiversity funds.
Read our 28 May story to learn more about the key decisions councillors agreed to include in the Annual Plan 2026/27
Funding for public transport
Deputy Chair Iaean Cranwell said funding has also been confirmed to continue the current trial of direct bus services between Rolleston and Christchurch through to 30 June 2027, alongside improvements to Metro Route 1 (Rangiora–Cashmere), Route 5 (Rolleston–New Brighton) and a new trial service for the Aranui community.
"These investments are focused on practical outcomes for our region," Deputy Chair Cranwell said.
"They will help strengthen resilience to natural hazards, support growing communities through better transport connections, and enhance biodiversity and environmental outcomes across Canterbury."
How public feedback influenced the Annual Plan
The Annual Plan was informed by feedback from individuals, organisations, district councils and Ngāi Tahu partners during the engagement process.
"We heard clearly that people value environmental protection, flood resilience and public transport, but they also expect us to be careful stewards of public money," Deputy Chair Cranwell said.
"This plan reflects that feedback and strikes a balance between delivering today and preparing for tomorrow."
Chair Swiggs said Environment Canterbury remained committed to serving communities regardless of future changes to local government structures.
"Our responsibility to Canterbury does not diminish because reform is underway. We will continue delivering the services that underpin our region's success efficiently, transparently and with accountability."