Marlborough District Council approved its 2026-27 Annual Plan budget on 25 June 2026, resulting in an average rates increase of 6.81%, down from the 8.8% increase forecast in the Long Term Plan 2024-34.

Council budgeted $132 million for capital projects in 2026-27, including investment in roading, water services, flood protection and community facilities. This includes $60 million for roads and footpaths, with $27 million allocated to ongoing repairs and rebuilding of the storm-damaged Marlborough Sounds roading network.

Councillors deferred several expenditure items to help reduce the impact on ratepayers this year, including increased depreciation funding for three waters infrastructure, contributions to the Emergency Events Reserve and adjustments to the Covid rates relief discount.

Council found over $600,000 in operational savings and approved additional resources for emergency management. Mayor Taylor thanked the 50 individuals and organisations who provided feedback through the Annual Plan feedback process, noting some proposals would be considered through future work programmes and the Long Term Plan review next year. A full review of Council budgets will be undertaken ahead of the development of the next ten-year Long Term Plan.