Our work

Maatou Mahi

Navigate business support Navigate development

Four strategic pillars

Weaving the golden thread of strategy through our work

Our work programme is underpinned by four strategic pillars. These pillars help us weave Council strategies throughout our day-to-day work keeping our team focused on delivering targeted activity in partnership with our communities, partners and investors.

A lot of the work we do aligns to the socio-economic priorities outlined in Waikato 2070 Growth and Development Strategy.

Our strategic pillars are:

Investment and attraction
Business growth and sustainability
Sector development
Workforce development

Sector development

Working to grow key sectors

Sector development in the Waikato district is crucial for driving economic growth and supporting workforce development. By leveraging local strengths in sectors such as agriculture, agritech, construction, tourism, and renewable energy, we create opportunities for skill development and employment.

Our programmes prioritise local talent and resources, fostering a robust, diverse economy that benefits our communities. Strengthening key sectors and encouraging local collaboration not only builds a self-sustaining economy but also enhances workforce capabilities, ensuring long-term opportunities and reinforcing local identity and pride.

This approach ensures inclusive, sustainable development, with the vision of creating a resilient, prosperous region for future generations

Business growth and sustainability

Supporting local businesses to thrive

Supporting businesses in the Waikato district is key to sustainable economic development and long-term prosperity. By offering targeted resources, connections with local agencies, and tailored advisory services, we help district businesses scale and adapt to market changes.

Our initiatives include facilitating access to innovation and research support, encouraging sustainable practices, and promoting collaboration. Transitioning to sustainable business models enhances business resilience and strengthens our economic base.

By nurturing stablished businesses, we build a diverse, thriving economy that supports job creation, fosters innovation, and ensures our district and region remains competitive and sustainable in a changing global market.

Investment and attraction

Supporting sustainable growth in the Waikato district

Investment and attraction are pivotal for economic growth in the Waikato district. By working with domestic and international investors, we foster the development of new industries and technologies.

Emphasising research, development, and sustainable practices leverages our strengths in agriculture, infrastructure, and natural resources.

Attracting innovative businesses and talent enhances the economy, creates high-value jobs, and boosts competitiveness in sectors like clean technology and agritech. Our goal is to establish Waikato district as a hub for sustainable growth and innovation.

Workforce development

Developing local people to grow local businesses

Workforce development in the Waikato district is essential for enhancing business productivity and resident wellbeing.

By investing in education, training, and upskilling, we align workforce skills with the needs of emerging industries like agritech and renewable energy. Collaboration between educational institutions, industry leaders, and local employers creates career pathways and opportunities for advancement. Initiatives such as apprenticeships and specialized training bridge skill gaps and promote lifelong learning.

Strengthening workforce development attracts talent, fosters innovation, and supports a resilient, adaptable labour market, driving sustainable economic growth and improving quality of life for residents.