Annual Plan 2025-2026 (Mahere ā tau), 1 July 2025 - 30 June 2026

Context and purpose. The 2025/26 Annual Plan sets the budget for year two of the 2024-2034 Long Term Plan and was adopted on 26 June 2025 (p.5). It notes the opening of the Town Centre Arterial Road in late January 2025 (p.3).

Transport. Transport capital asset expenditure is $23.6m against $29.6m in the LTP, a variance of $(6.1)m; roading and footpaths capital is $23.2m against $29.5m, 'Decrease to align with NZTA Sub Funding' (p.37). The narrative explains the change as being 'to align with subsidised transport budgets approved by NZTA and re-prioritise non-subsidised 'local share' budgets' (p.16). Grants and subsidies fall from $26.0m to $20.0m, reflecting a 'Reduction in NZTA roading subsidy' (p.32). Transport operating expenditure is $47.4m against $49.2m (p.36). Parking facilities capital rises to $411k from $160k (p.37). The list of projects of $500k or more (p.18) is dominated by renewals (Whakatipu sealed road resurfacing $2.93m, Wānaka $1.73m, rehabilitation and metalling), plus unsubsidised minor improvements (Whakatipu $1.18m, Upper Clutha $0.73m), Crown Range resilience $685,501, Arterial Stage One $958,622 and Transport Model Replacement $567,861; the stated total is $16,812,955. Arterial Stages 2-3, active travel capital and travel demand management are not itemised.

Public transport and parking. Council aims to 'encourage alternative transport options like walking, cycling, and public transport'; 'Otago Regional Council is increasing bus service frequency and introducing a new route from mid-year' (p.9). The transport improvement fund, to subsidise public transport and its infrastructure, has a closing balance of $604k (p.42). The plan refers to reopening the Stanley and Ballarat Street car parks (p.9).

Mass rapid transit: No reference to mass rapid transit was found in the pages read (to p.47 of at least 81).