The Wellington City Council has recently voted to reduce its budget, a decision that will shape the development of the proposed Long-Term Plan Amendment. This amendment is scheduled for further consideration on December 17th at the Long-Term Plan Committee.

Mayor Tory Whanau acknowledged the challenges involved in reducing the capital programme but expressed confidence that these changes strike a balance between addressing the city’s insurance risk and continuing to invest in Wellington’s future, particularly in nature, housing, and transport.

“As we work through this process, I am ensuring that we will still be investing in key projects such as our water infrastructure and social housing while also protecting our climate change initiatives such as transforming our waste system and decarbonising our pools,” said Mayor Whanau.

She added, “Our communities deserve to have access to warm, dry, and safe homes, with transport that gets them across the city where they can enjoy our world-class arts scene and natural environment.”

Despite the budget reductions, the following key projects remain part of the Long-Term Plan process:

• A record $1.8 billion investment in water infrastructure.
• Public and active transport improvements, including a new Harbour Quays bus route.
• Library and community upgrades, with nearly $100 million allocated to complete and reopen the central city Library, Te Matapihi.
• Real climate action initiatives, such as degasifying the pool network and reducing landfill waste, which will lower emissions by up to 10,000 tonnes per year.
• Upgrading social housing to provide tenants with safe and warm homes.
• Over $70 million in funding to improve central city and suburban parks and spaces, including the Green Network Plan and suburban centre upgrades.
• Retention of the Golden Mile transformation.

However, to mitigate the insurance risk highlighted by the Notice of Motion on the proposed sale of airport shares (decided on October 10), the following projects are proposed for cuts, rephasing, or rescoping:

• Begonia House
• Bond Store upgrade
• City Streets transport funding
• Karori Events Centre
• Te Ngakau Civic Square
• Venue upgrades
• Frank Kitts Park redevelopment
• Otari Landscape Plan
• Zoo glamping development
• Te Awe Mapara Community Facilities Plan

Following the December 17th meeting, the amended Long-Term Plan will be prepared for public consultation early next year.

“I am incredibly proud of our Councillors and Pouiwi for working collaboratively and effectively on this amendment process. It shows we all want the best outcomes for our wonderful city. I look forward to hearing what the public thinks during consultation,” said Mayor Whanau.

This amendment marks a critical step in balancing immediate risks with Wellington’s long-term vision. It is imperative for residents to engage during the consultation process to ensure their voices are heard.

Sincerely,
Alexandra Hayes