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- By Desley Simpson, Auckland Deputy Mayor
Aucklanders deserve a council that treats their money wisely and delivers on its promises.
The floods of 2023 and the challenges of Covid-19 taught us some tough lessons. But, in the face of crisis, we became more financially efficient, more focused, and more disciplined about what truly matters for our communities.
Those experiences have shaped a stronger, more resilient approach to how we manage public funds and plan for the future.
Our latest quarterly report shows just how far we’ve come. Even with global uncertainty, Auckland is in a strong financial position and well placed for what lies ahead.
That strength comes from disciplined financial management and a clear focus on the essentials – something I champion as chair of the Value for Money Committee.
Alongside my colleagues, we’ve worked hard to ensure every dollar delivers real outcomes for Aucklanders.
In the past six months, we’ve delivered $1.8 billion in capital projects, achieving 81 per cent of our budgeted programme.
These investments include major infrastructure upgrades, renewed public spaces, and new community facilities – improvements that support growth, strengthen resilience, and make daily life better across our region.
Our financial performance reflects the same momentum. Net direct expenditure was $137 million favourable to budget, driven by higher revenue and lower costs.
We’ve already achieved 79 per cent of our full‑year savings target, demonstrating responsible stewardship of ratepayers’ money while continuing to invest in the services Aucklanders rely on.
At the same time, Auckland Council Libraries has transformed how our city reads, learns, and connects.
With more than 800,000 digital items freely available, Aucklanders are embracing a library that fits seamlessly into modern life.
This digital shift is expanding access across Auckland, and the results speak for themselves – Auckland now ranks 11th in the world for e‑lending, standing alongside some of the world’s most innovative library systems.
We’re also seeing progress in other key areas. Building consents reached their highest‑ever customer satisfaction rating, and we’re still refining the process to make it faster, more intuitive, and easier to navigate.
Momentum is building across our region, and Auckland’s future feels brighter every day.
Together we’re creating a city that’s stronger, more connected, and full of possibility.
