Taxpayers' Union Launches 2026 Ratepayers' Report for Taranaki Councils 

Taranaki boasts some of the lowest rates; refusal to disclose high salaries in Stratford District and Taranaki Regional concerns transparency. 

Councils across Taranaki may be charging some of the lowest rates in the North Island, but concerns are mounting over transparency and accountability, according to the Taxpayers’ Union’s 2026 council league tables, Ratepayers’ Report. 

Taxpayers' Union spokesperson, Josh Van Veen, said: 
 
 

“The issue of transparency is highlighted by both Stratford District and Taranaki Regional Council’s refusing to disclose how many staff are paid more than $200,000. New Plymouth reported 8 and South Taranaki 4 full-time staff on more than $200,000 per year. That lack of disclosure puts these councils out of step with basic expectations of public sector accountability.” 

“On the rates front, the region charges the lowest in the North Island, with a $3,502 average. This is beaten nationally only by Southland and the West Coast.”  

“Ratepayers should be concerned about the lack of transparency in the region. Combined with soaring debt levels, that secrecy makes it even harder for Taranaki residents to hold their councils accountable.”  

Prior to publication, every council were provided their figures for error checking, with requested corrections made. We encourage ratepayers to compare their council for themselves at RatepayersReport.nz. 

Taranaki Councils:  

• New Plymouth District Council 

• South Taranaki District Council 

• Stratford District Council 

• Taranaki Regional Council 

Regional media releases, including relevant notable findings, can be found here.

Frequently asked questions, including on methodology, can be found here.