Sector Support
Tauawhi Raangai
Sector Support
Supporting collaboration and growth
Waikato district has strong sector representation, and our economic development team are currently focusing on collectivising the efforts of our largest sectors to support regional growth and district workforce development planning.
Our sector focus is:
- Rural and primary industry
- Tourism
- Construction
- Manufacturing and Logistics
Connect
How can we work together?
Our advisors work closely with partners and regional stakeholders to provide sector support and training.
If your business is in one of our focus sectors we would love to have you involved!
Please connect with our team to learn more about the sector development programmes in the Waikato district.
Rural and Primary Industry Support
Primary Industry and Rural Business
The heart of our economy
The Waikato district has some of the most fertile soils in the country. These exceptional soils and breathtaking natural landscapes are pivotal in driving our district and the country’s economy, fostering growth, prosperity, and diverse opportunities.
The Waikato’s primary sector is not only a key contributor to the economy but is also stimulating wider technological advancements and sustainability practices. With a strong foundation in dairy, meat, and horticulture, we are pushing boundaries with agritech solutions that enhance productivity and foster sustainable practices.
We are committed to supporting rural and primary industries through our rural economic advisory panel and through ensuring that sector business are well connected to our partner support services.
On Farm Support
Free business advisory services
Our team are proud to partner with the On Farm Support team who offer free business advisory services to land based businesses in the Waikato district.
Find our more about their services here.
People, Food and Fibre
Workforce Development Council
Muka Tangaa engage with industries and education and training providers, offer skills leadership and advice, work on qualifications, standards, and quality assurance, and are exploring different ways of working to meet the needs of the food and fibre sector. They also advise government on what programmes and qualifications they should support and fund. Find out more here.
Rural Support Trust
Free confidential support for farmers in the Waikato District
Rural Support Trust are able to provide free one-on-one confidential support for Waikato district farmers and growers at a time and place that suits. If needed, they may facilitate a referral to the right professional help, such as farm management, mentoring or counselling.
The trust has access to rural networks and professionals, health services and providers, local and central government agencies, and Civil Defence, allowing us to be well placed to assist in times of need.
Find our more about their services here.
Ministry for Primary Industries
Services
MPI's work stretches from paddock, orchard, forest and ocean, through the processing, packaging, and transportation system, all the way to market, and ultimately to consumers worldwide.
Learn more about array of services on offer to primary industry businesses here.
Waikato District Tourism Sector Support
Waikato District
A unique visitor destination
The Waikato district is home to a multitude of visitor experiences and a fast growing tourism sector.
The Waikato region was recently named among the top 10 trending global destinations for 2025 in Expedia Group’s Unpack ‘25 report – alongside Abu Dhabi, Fukuoka and Santa Barbara.
We are committed to supporting our tourism sector businesses to prepare for the opportunities ahead.
Hamilton & Waikato Tourism
Growing capability and capacity of tourism businesses in the Waikato district
Our team are proud to partner with the team at Hamilton & Waikato Tourism to grow the capability and capacity of Waikato district tourism businesses.
The team provide fantastic tourism industry resources and assistance via their website here.
Tainui Waka Tourism Inc
Supporting Maaori tourism operators in the Waikato
Tainui Waka Tourism are an incorporated society that support Maaori tourism operators in the Waikato region.
Click here for more information about their services and projects they are involved in.
Construction Sector Support
Construction Sector Support
Supporting a growing Waikato district construction sector
The local construction industry has experienced rapid growth and our team are committed to ensuring that the industry is well supported and continues to grow sustainably, adding value to the local economy.
Construction and Infrastructure
Workforce Development Council
Our team are proud to partner with the team at Waihanga Ara Rau to strengthen the construction and infrastructure workforce.
Find out more about the fantastic resources on offer via their website here.
Manufacturing and Logistics Sector Support
Manufacturing and Logistics Sector Support
Supporting connection and productivity in manufacturing and logistics
The Waikato district is a key location for manufacturing and logistics businesses due to proximity to key distribution lines and land availability.
We are committed to supporting sector clusters to foster business interconnection for strategic gain.
With the growth of this sector we look forward to scaling up the production of value add export commodities that play a pivotal role in our local and national economy.
Manufacturing, Engineering and Logistics
Workforce Development Council
Our team are proud to partner with the team at Hanga Aro Rau to strengthen the manufacturing, engineering and logistics workforce.
Find out more about the fantastic resources on offer via their website here.
Employers and Manufacturers Association
Supporting and growing manufacturing businesses
EMA have a long history supporting manufacturers – large and small – helping them grow their business through collaboration, innovation, digitisation and the exchange of knowledge and ideas.
You can see more about the resources on offer to the manufacturing sector here.