In July/August we asked which services matter most, and where changes could be made, to help keep rates affordable. Your feedback has helped shape proposals to reduce service costs and the amount funded through rates.

Please read the supporting information, including potential savings and other key details, to help inform your feedback on this proposal.
What we are considering

Council is considering a shift over time to one library, customer service centre and Council office location in South Ruapehu instead of two. Any buildings that are no longer needed could then be repurposed or sold.

As this cannot happen overnight, Council is also considering reducing opening hours of libraries and customer service centres in the short-term, to help reduce costs while long-term options are progressed.

If there is appetite for change it will take time to develop proposals.

There are four possible scenarios being considered:
  1. Continue operating the current Ohakune Library, Customer Service Centre and Council office, with services no longer provided from Raetihi.
  2. Continue operating the current Raetihi Library, Customer Service Centre and Council office, with services no longer provided from Ohakune.
  3. Develop a new shared facility serving South Ruapehu and relocate services from both existing sites over time. *see note below on this option
  4. Retain operations in both Raetihi and Ohakune (status quo)
Note on Option 3

Council’s current Long-Term Plan includes working with Te Korowai o Wainuiārua to investigate and develop the Raetihi Community Hub, which could provide opportunities for a future shared community facility. Any future decision about libraries, customer services and Council offices could potentially align with wider community facility planning in South Ruapehu.

This project was included in the Long-Term Plan contingent upon external funding. The potential sale of current office and library asset may be able to help fund this option.
Key points
  • Council is considering one shared library, customer service centre and office location for South Ruapehu.
  • Options are to retain Ohakune, retain Raetihi, develop a new shared facility, or keep both existing sites.
  • Southern facilities currently cost approximately $500,000 a year to operate.
  • Operating from one location could save an indicative $1.5–$2 million over 10 years.
  • Buildings no longer needed could be repurposed or sold.
  • Reduced opening hours are also being considered as a short-term saving.
  • Ohakune and Raetihi facilities are only 11 kilometres apart. This is the closest set of council offices of all 29 small rural and provincial councils.
  • Services include libraries, internet access, Council payments and enquiries, and staff offices. Raetihi also houses NZ Post and NZTA services.
  • A future shared facility could align with the proposed Raetihi Community Hub, which depends on external funding.
  • Savings exclude building upgrades, relocation, asset sale costs or a new facility. Detailed proposals would take time to develop.
If you haven't read the supporting info on our website, please do so before giving your feedback as it may help inform your views.

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1. Do you think Council should continue operating separate library and customer service centres in both Ohakune and Raetihi?

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2. If NO, which option would you prefer? (rank 1-3)

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3. Where do you live?

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4. Please share any other comments you have below:

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