Council has confirmed a two year extension of its Road Network Operations and Maintenance Contract, helping ensure local roads continue to be well maintained and value for money is delivered for ratepayers.
At an Ordinary Council Meeting on 21 April 2026, Council approved extending the existing contract with Rooney Earthmoving Ltd from 1 July 2026 through to 30 June 2028. This takes the contract to its full seven year term.
Council heard that the contractor has performed strongly since the contract began in 2021, delivering reliable outcomes across everyday road maintenance as well as larger renewal projects. This includes pavement and footpath works, kerb and channel renewals, and culvert replacements. The company has also responded quickly and effectively to urgent issues and emergency events such as flooding, slips, and fallen trees.
Benchmarking against other similar rural councils shows Waimate District performs particularly well when it comes to roading costs. At $4,247 per kilometre, the district currently has some of the lowest maintenance and renewal costs in the country, reflecting the competitive rates achieved under the existing contract. Extending the contract allows Council to retain these favourable rates and build on established working relationships.
Market conditions were another important factor in Council’s decision. With global oil prices continuing to fluctuate, tendering a new long term road maintenance contract at this time could introduce cost uncertainty. Extending the current contract provides price certainty while the market stabilises.
Overall, the decision supports smooth, efficient road maintenance and continued focus on improving forward planning and programme delivery over the coming years.
________________________________________________
