Locals may be pleased to hear that Auckland Council has once again surpassed its annual operating savings target.

In the 2023/24 financial year, the council saved $60.2 million, exceeding its $50 million target by $10.2 million.

These savings contribute to a total of $332 million saved over the past three years.

The savings report was presented at the Revenue, Expenditure and Value Committee meeting, where Chair Maurice Williamson expressed satisfaction with the results.

"This year, we've overshot the target and gathered an additional $10.2 million in savings, demonstrating discipline through a line-by-line approach to our spending," said Cr Williamson.

The $10.2 million in additional savings will contribute to lower net debt for the council’s financial year ending on 30 June 2024, positioning the council favourably for the new financial year.

Mayor Wayne Brown highlighted the importance of these savings, noting that they reflect a continued effort to ensure cost efficiencies for Aucklanders.

"We must make savings and cut costs for Aucklanders. This is more evidence the ship is turning," he said.

The savings were achieved through various initiatives, including reducing the corporate property footprint, optimising maintenance, and integrating service centres into libraries.

Auckland Council Chief Executive Phil Wilson credited the council's "culture of efficiency" for the strong results, emphasising the importance of using community funds effectively to build trust with ratepayers.