Buller’s first independent residents’ survey sets a clear benchmark
Buller District Council has received the results of its 2025 Residents’ Survey, providing the first independent, statistically validated insight into how residents across the district perceive Council services, facilities, communication, and overall performance.
Group Manager Community Services Krissy Trigg says “Key Research conducted the survey between 5 September and 12 October 2025. 4,800 randomly selected residents were invited to take part, and 411 completed the survey. Going forward, the survey will be carried out in
the same format every two years.”
Residents provided strong feedback on many of the district’s facilities and green spaces. Satisfaction with facilities such as the NBS Theatre and the Sue Thompson Memorial Library topped 90%. Parks, reserves, and open green areas were also rated highly, with 70% of residents satisfied with how these spaces are maintained and managed.
The results also highlight clear priorities for improvement. Overall satisfaction with council performance is at 28%, with value for money emerging as the main factor influencing how residents feel. Only 21% of ratepayers believe they receive good value for the rates they pay, with 19% feeling property rates are fair and reasonable.
Concerns about rates were the most frequently made comments, alongside requests for clearer information about how money is being spent.
Infrastructure services also stand out as a key area of focus for improvements. Only a quarter of residents are satisfied with water services management. Stormwater issues, especially flooding and related response times frequently appear in feedback. 32% of
residents are satisfied with the condition of local roads and footpaths.
In relation to rubbish and recycling services, 84% of Buller District residents receive kerbside rubbish bag and recycling collection, with 57% of those satisfied with the service. However, 69% of respondents commented that the service, or the bags themselves, are too
expensive.
Communication and engagement results show a mixed picture. Most residents (86%) know where to find council information, and 43% use Facebook or council’s website as their main information source, demonstrating that people are connected to our channels.
Only 41% of residents are satisfied with how the council keeps people informed, indicating there is room to improve how information is shared.
Ms Trigg continues: “For consultations, residents clearly prefer online engagement methods, with 64% choosing online surveys or submission forms as their preferred method of participation. However, many also said they do not feel their input makes a difference, or are
unaware of when engagement is taking place, highlighting that improving visibility and closing the feedback loop are key areas for development.”
Despite these concerns, Buller residents still rate their quality of life highly. 73% percent say their quality of life is good or excellent, and one third believe the district is heading in the right direction.
“These findings provide valuable insights and give a clear starting point for council to track progress over time. We will use the results to inform departmental and organisational planning, and direct resources toward areas where the need for service improvements is a clear priority” concludes Ms Trigg.
Council extends its thanks to everyone who completed the survey. Residents’ feedback directly shapes the work council does, and the latest survey results will be used to redefine the organisation’s focus on what matters most to the Buller community.
-ENDS-
For further information please contact:
Community Engagement Team
Buller District Council
Media.Enquiries@bdc.govt.nz
Disclaimer
The information in this media release was correct at time of publication. Changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.