Draft Annual Plan 2026/27: have your say on regional priorities
Have your say on Canterbury Regional Council’s draft Annual Plan 2026/27, which outlines services, regional priorities and a proposed overall rates revenue increase of 2.9%.
The draft plan outlines how the regional council will continue delivering essential services, including flood protection, public transport, environmental monitoring and natural hazard planning, while preparing for potential changes to local government.
Delivering the essentials during change
Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) Chair Dr Deon Swiggs said the council’s focus remains on the services people rely on every day.
“From managing flood risk and water quality to responding to pollution and maintaining public transport, delivering this work is fundamental to the safety and prosperity of Waitaha Canterbury.”
“Regional decisions need regional accountability. Whatever reforms may come, our job is to keep delivering the services that protect our environment, support our communities and keep the region functioning safely,” Chair Swiggs said.
Balancing affordability and essential services
The draft Annual Plan 2026/27 proposes an overall rates revenue increase of 2.9%, much lower than the 17.2% we predicted in July 2025 based on work forecast for delivery in 2026/27. This reflects some work either being deferred or not going ahead and some organisational savings.
Deputy Chair Cr Iaean Cranwell said the council had taken a careful approach to keep costs down while maintaining core services.
“We know households and businesses are under pressure. We’ve looked closely at our costs and focused on efficiencies so we can continue delivering the services our region depends on.”
Key priorities for 2026/27
The draft plan focuses on:
- Protecting and enhancing land, water, air and ecosystems
- Supporting safe, reliable and equitable regional transport
- Strengthening resilience to climate change and natural hazards
- Working in partnership with mana whenua, councils, communities and industry
- Maintaining transparent and responsible financial stewardship
Your feedback will help shape the final Annual Plan
“This is about being open and accountable to the people we serve. We want to hear what matters most so we can make informed decisions for our region,” Chair Swiggs said.
Have your say on the draft Annual Plan 2026/27: Find out more and submit feedback before 11.59pm 31 March, 2026.