Each year, the council surveys ratepayers to get feedback on how it is doing in a range of areas. The survey was done in May with a sample size of 400 residents.
When rating the mayor and councillors, 39% rated them very satisfactory or fairly satisfactory, compared with 40% (2007), 50% (2006) and 55% (2005). The target was 60%.
The survey found out of 15 service areas, the council performed better than the average for other rural councils in nine services areas, and the same as the average in one area.
Service areas where performance had improved noticeably since 2007 included water, recycling, consultation and community board performance.
There was a high level of satisfaction with the council's customer service. Eighty-nine percent of people contacting the council by phone and 90% of people who contacted the council in person were happy with the service they received.
The survey also asked people to identify whether they considered services to be a high or a low priority. Highest priority services identified were rubbish, water supplies, roads, the environment and economic development. Community facilities, the port and the airport were considered lower priorities.
Mr Familton said it was pleasing to note residents had noticed improvements to some of the council's customer services. The survey results would be reviewed to identify where performance could be improved.
