A lower-than-forecast rates increase is on the cards for Christchurch

City Councillors adopted its Draft Annual Plan yesterday, in a 14-to-four vote.

It now proposes a 7.58-percent overall rates increase for this year -- while next year's has leapt to a forecast 10.4-percent.

Pauline Cotter voted in favour -- but expressed discomfort at the looming hike.

She acknowledged it's a good year to ease financial pressure on ratepayers -- with hopes the economy will be better next year.

Cotter told the meeting everyone wants to keep increases low -- but the council needs to be able to deliver its services.

Public consultation begins February 26.