The one thing the Ashburton District Council wanted to deliver in 2023 didn't happen, the proposed second bridge took a big step forward, and 30kph school speed zones were introduced.
An increased road budget, three waters compliance and interest are behind a signalled 11.5 percent rates rise in the first year of the Ashburton District Council's long-term plan.
Heavy rain continues to fall in Canterbury, raising fears of further evacuations and flooding, particularly in Ashburton where half of the town's residents are preparing to leave their homes.
The Heathcote River in Christchurch has broken its banks and local authorities are warning that the next high tide will bring fresh flooding in the city.