Standard and Poor’s Global

Standard & Poor's Global (S&P Global) Ratings provides credit ratings for more than one million government, corporate, financial sector and structured finance entities and securities around the world, including Horowhenua District Council.

S&P Global analysts, managers and economists assess the factors and trends that affect creditworthiness. They can analyse anything from the state of an enterprise and its position in its industry, to the economic health of regions around the world.

The company rates borrowers on a scale from AAA to D. Intermediate ratings are offered at each level between AA and CCC (eg BBB+, BBB and BBB−).

As well as this, Standard and Poor’s Global publishes the S&P 500 sharemarket index in the United States, the Canadian S&P/TSX, and the Australian S&P/ASX 200.

S&P Global Ratings for Horowhenua District Council

Horowhenua retains an A+ credit rating in the 2025 S&P Global rating report, with a negative long-term rating.

S&P Global noted that our operating surpluses are improving, supported by significant general rates increases and tighter expense controls, sound financial management practices and adherence to our financial strategy. However, there is some  uncertainty in relation to how Three Waters reforms could impact our future financial position.

The negative outlook reflects concern that fiscal recovery may stall if rates increases are delayed or reduced, or operating costs exceed forecast. S&P Global noted it could revise the long-term outlook to stable in the future if operating margins strengthen and capital account deficits narrow substantially.

Information about S&P Global ratings for Horowhenua District Council can be found below.