Council News

Spruce-up for CBD through Town Centre Improvement Fund 

A total of 11 Queen Street businesses have been approved for funding support from Masterton District Council to cover up to 80 percent of the cost of improving the look of their buildings.

Average 4.2% rates rise agreed following savings, service adjustments

Following robust discussion at an extraordinary Council meeting, elected members have agreed to reduce the proposed rates increase to 4.2 percent for the next financial year.

Wairarapa history brought to life as 1940s newspapers go digital

Around 1700 editions of the Wairarapa Times-Age from 1944 to1950 are now accessible online as part of the National Library of New Zealand’s Collaborative Newspaper Digitisation Programme.

Dog registration fees finalised for 2026/27

Masterton District Council has finalised dog fees for 2026/27.

MDC seeks community’s views on amalgamation priorities 

Masterton District Council is asking the community what matters most as changes to local government are considered across New Zealand.

Residents’ survey shows steady results and areas for improvement

Masterton District Council has released the results of its 2026 Residents’ Survey, with satisfaction with its overall performance at 40 percent, close to the 41 percent from the 2023 survey.

Street furniture gets a refresh at the Mens Shed

Street furniture from Queen Street will get a new home in the town square thanks to the Mens Shed.

Queen Street tree planting begins

The first stage of the Queen Street watermain project wraps up this week as landscapers begin work on planting new trees and garden beds.

Contract signed for refurbishment of Masterton District Library

Work will start in the coming week on the next stage of the Breathing new life into our whare pukapuka project, with a contract signed with Brosnan to refurbish and expand Masterton District Library.

New bridge to Park Island open

A new fully-accessible bridge to Park Island in Masterton’s Lake of Remembrance has been officially opened by Mayor Bex Johnson.

Amalgamation Discussion on the Table as Masterton Navigates Options

In light of community conversations, and in the interest of transparency, Mayor Johnson has confirmed that discussions around amalgamation and future structural options are continuing at a high level.

Council to consult on extension of Ōpaki Water Race closure

Masterton District Council has unanimously resolved to consult on an extended closure date for the Ōpaki Water Race by 12 months, to 30 June 2027 only.

Wairarapa moves from State of Emergency into a Local Transition Period

​From 5pm tonight, Wairarapa will move out of a State of Emergency and into a Local Transition Period (LTP) to support recovery planning.

Time running out to share views on Masterton's future

The deadline for submissions on Masterton District Council's Annual Plan for 2026/27 and Masterton’s plan for the future, Our Future Our Story, is just days away, closing on Tuesday, 28 April.

Wairarapa Tararua’s water entity officially launched today

The Wairarapa Tararua’s new water organisation establishment reached a major milestone with its launch, the announcement of its Board and company name, Waitī Waters, at an event in Masterton.

A fresh new look for Kids Own Playground – Public Feedback open

Masterton South Rotary Club, in partnership with Masterton District Council is inviting the community to share their vision for the next generation of play equipment at Kids Own Playground.

Cyclone Vaianu and Weather Notices, 12 April 2026

Additional Funding Approved for Queen Street Trees

The Masterton community has voiced its concerns, and Council has listened. At Wednesday’s Council meeting, elected members approved an additional $550,000 for landscaping improvements on Queen Street.

​Consultation begins on Masterton’s future

Consultation is now open on Masterton District Council's Annual Plan for the 2026/27 financial year and the development plan, Our Future Our Story, which considers Masterton’s vision towards 2050.

From Shelter Dog to Service Dog: Ginni’s Story

Ginni is currently training to become an epilepsy support dog for her human. Her journey, however, began at the Masterton District Council animal shelter.