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  2. Regional economy, growth and development

Planning ahead

The Waikato is a dynamic region with ever-changing pressures on its growth, economy and resources.  It's Waikato Regional Council's job to keep an eye on the related issues and opportunities facing the region, help manage them and also to plan for the region's future growth and development.

Economic reporting and information

Social and economic indicators

We regularly research and report on the relationships between our region's people, economy and environment. Read about our latest findings.

Waikato Regional Economic Profile

This report considers the fundamentals and drivers for the regional economy, so that everyone can have a shared understanding of the economic issues and opportunities facing the Waikato region.

Dashboard - Regional economic profile

Take a closer look at the Waikato region's economic profile on the Infometrics website.

Waikato Progress Indicators

Our Waikato Progress Indicators (WPI) measure the Waikato region’s progress by identifying our current situation and trends across each of 32 key economic, environmental and social aspects.

Te Waka: Anga whakamua Waikato

Te Waka (Waikato Regional Economic Development Agency) is a business-led and governed organisation established to drive economic growth in the Waikato. They work in partnership with existing economic development, iwi, business, government and community organisations.

The costs of physical inactivity

Waikato Regional Council, Auckland Council and Greater Wellington Regional Council jointly commissioned a study to examine the full costs of physical inactivity in their regions. 

Regional planning and forecasting

Aquaculture strategy

Growing together – Whakatupu Ngātahi is our region-wide aquaculture strategy to create a bright, sustainable and resilient future for the industry and the Waikato region.

Future Proof

Future Proof is a growth strategy specific to the Hamilton, Waipā and Waikato sub-region. Population is predicted to double over the next 50 years so collective planning and action is critical to the Waikato's long term success.

Upper North Island Strategic Alliance (UNISA)

UNISA responds to and manages a range of inter-regional and inter-metropolitan issues. Members consists of Northland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty regional councils, Auckland Council, Whangārei District Council and Hamilton and Tauranga city councils.

District council ICMPs

Local district integrated catchment management plans provide guides for stormwater, wastewater and water management, as well as a framework to allow property development to occur in a managed way.

Transportation planning

Regional growth and development can have adverse effects on transport systems. Transport infrastructure, such as roads and public transport, is also needed to support new growth and development.

Sustainable subdivision development

Ideas and advice for planners, developers and contractors on creating more sustainable subdivisions