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.

The survey is conducted independently every three years, using a random sample of residents from the electoral roll. This year 403 residents responded.

The results are in line with the average for the 25 councils using Key Research to survey residents, but with satisfaction with value for money close to the maximum recorded of 43 per cent. For Masterton, satisfaction with value for moneyimproved by 6 percent to 40 percent.

The survey also shows improved results in core service areas of roading, water, and waste.

Satisfaction with roads throughout the district (excluding State highways) is up 12 percent to 39 percent. There was a 10 percent increase in satisfaction with ease of moving around the district at peak times (45 percent), stormwater services (46 percent), and litter control (65 percent).

Waste services were among services rating most highly (kerbside recycling – 83 percent, kerbside rubbish collection – 77 percent).

Satisfaction with water management was up across all three waters – water supply 64 percent (up from 61 percent), sewerage system 61 percent (up from 55 percent), stormwater 46 percent (up from 36 percent).

Chief Executive Kym Fell said the results reflected both encouraging progress and clear direction from the community on where further focus was needed.

“It’s encouraging to see improvements across a number of the services residents rely on every day, particularly in areas such as roads, water, waste, and value for money,” Mr Fell said.

“At the same time, the survey gives us a clear understanding of where our community wants to see further improvement, particularly around communication, trust, and confidence in Council.”

Mr Fell said the results reflected the broader pressures currently facing communities and local government.

“We know households are continuing to feel the impact of cost-of-living pressures, and that naturally shapes how people view rates and value for money. Those expectations are important, and we need to continue demonstrating that we are delivering practical outcomes for the district.”

The findings will also be considered alongside wider work on the future shape of local government, including ongoing amalgamation discussions.

“This survey is an important piece of community feedback. It will help inform future decision-making around priorities, service delivery, and how Council continues to evolve to meet the needs of our district.”

Here is the full survey report.

ENDS