Public perception of Council on the rise

A ‘back-to-basics’ approach to council spending and decision-making is beginning to deliver for Waipā District Council, with the 2024 Annual Resident Perception Survey showing an encouraging upturn.

In the latest survey, satisfaction with overall performance has increased by three percentage points (from 19 per cent to 22 per cent) since 2023, and satisfaction across most other measures have also increased, including value for money.

Mayor Susan O’Regan says it’s encouraging to see public perception of the council improving during such challenging economic times. “It’s early days, but this gradual improvement shows that Waipā residents are increasingly trusting the council and appreciating its efforts,” she said. “We’ve had to make some tough calls to strike the right balance between core services and projects that will help Waipā truly thrive in the future.

“The survey results show we are on the right track and highlights the areas where we need to continue to strive to improve.”

Satisfaction with the council’s overall services, facilities and infrastructure increased four percentage points year-on-year, and the council’s overall reputation increased from 62 per cent to 65 per cent.

Nearly one in seven respondents praised the council for doing a good job, recognising in particular its friendly and helpful staff.

Issues with roading infrastructure remain the top concern for Waipā people, with 27 per cent of respondents making comments related to roads. A number also raise concerns about growth and development, and their effect on the community.

The areas identified for priority improvement include value for money and financial management.

O’Regan said she is heartened that pride in the Waipā district remains strong, with community spirit increasing and 66 per cent of residents rating their quality of life as ‘good’ to ‘excellent’.

“Our Waipā rangitahi (young people) have an increasing perception of culture and heritage in the district, as well as a significantly increased knowledge about the council and its activities since the last survey – and that’s really positive for the future.”

The resident perception survey is one mechanism the council uses to seek feedback from the community, to gain valuable insight to support its decision making. The data has been collected four times a year since June 2016.

Benchmark results against other Councils will be available in mid-September and will reveal wider trends across the local government sector.