Manawatū District’s Overall Resident Satisfaction Rate Rises to 75% in 2025/26

The Resident Satisfaction Survey is conducted by an independent survey provider on behalf of Manawatū District Council. Sent to a random sample of around 113-119 residents each quarter, the survey includes 74 questions and asks respondents to rate their satisfaction from 1 to 10.

In 2025/26, Manawatū District Council’s overall satisfaction rate has reached 75%, an increase of 6% compared to 69% in 2024/25. Over the year, 459 residents received the survey, with 10 of the 11 main measures recording increased satisfaction rates, including in the following areas:

• All recorded age demographics showed an increase in satisfaction. Most significantly, satisfaction among residents aged 50 to 64 increased by 14% (79%)
• Satisfaction among Feilding residents increased by 5% (83%), and in rural villages by 9% (69%)
• Satisfaction with reliability of water supply increased by 4% (96%)
• Satisfaction with regulatory services increased by 8% (77%)
• Satisfaction with sportsgrounds increased by 4% (93%)
• Satisfaction with enquiry handling increased by 19% (77%)

Respondents’ verbatim comments reflected satisfaction with Council functions and strategic goals, while highlighting the importance of reliable core services.

• “We use the library all the time and love it”
• “The recycling centre in Feilding is excellent”
• “I’m keen on walkways so would like to see this as a future project being developed”
• "Stormwater has gotten better over the past few water events, but there are still areas that need attention regarding flooding"
• "I believe the Manawatū District Council is doing a good job dealing with sewage"
• “MDC has made our move to the Manawatū a pleasure”

The survey also identified areas for Council's continued focus and improvement, such as overall communications, adequate cycleways and accessibility to footpaths and crossing points for mobility scooters and wheelchairs.

Annually, the survey results are benchmarked against approximately 21 other New Zealand councils, providing valuable insight into how Council’s performance compares nationally. Council expects to receive the annual benchmarking report in the coming months, which will be uploaded alongside the 2025/26 Resident Satisfaction Survey report on MDC’s website in due course.

Alongside the survey, Council encourages residents to share feedback at any time by emailing public@mdc.govt.nz, calling 06 323 0000, or using the Antenno app.