Why Invest in the Waikato District?
He Aha Koe e Tahuri Mai ai ki a Maatou?
Top 10 reasons to invest in the Waikato District
The Waikato district has long been a favoured destination for businesses, residents, and visitors, and is renowned for its adaptability, strength, and growth.
Prime location
Within the Golden Triangle
Nestled within New Zealand’s Golden Triangle, the Waikato district offers unparalleled access to three major cities: Auckland, Hamilton, and Tauranga. This prime location ensures effortless connectivity through ports, logistics and various travel choices, making it a strategic hub for businesses.
A mixture of housing options, beautiful landscapes, and close-knit communities make it an ideal place to live, work, and raise a family.
Thriving primary sector and other industries
A rich agricultural sector
The Waikato district’s rich agricultural sector is the foundation of our local economy. Innovations in tech and sustainable practices make it a leader in productivity and environmental stewardship, offering vast opportunities for growth and investment.
A strong local workforce
One of NZ's youngest & fastest growing population
The Waikato district has one of New Zealand’s youngest and fastest growing populations, with an average age of just 38 years old.
These factors coupled with proximity to quality tertiary institutions and vocational training providers ensure that we have a youthful and well qualified local workforce.
Dedicated investor service
Our team will work alongside you and continue to support your business
As investors navigate their journey in establishing in the Waikato district our team will work alongside you from the beginning of your project and continue to support your business as you establish in the district.
We have a passionate team of economic development practitioners who work closely with highly skilled infrastructure development advisors to ensure investors can navigate quickly to establish in the Waikato district.
Our team are committed to ensuring all your infrastructure, regulatory and workforce needs are navigated seamlessly.
Forward-thinking and diverse economy
Hotbed for emerging industries
The Waikato region is a hotbed for emerging industries, including innovation and technology, freight and logistics, sustainable manufacturing, Agri-Tech, and tourism.
The Waikato district’s commitment to advancing technology and fostering resilient communities makes it a fertile ground for business success.
Well-planned for growth
Waikato 2070
Waikato District Council has planned well for the predicted growth with the development of Waikato 2070, a 50 year strategic plan for economic growth and development.
Waikato Tainui
Unlocking economic potential benefitting generations to come
Waikato District Council has recently intensified its focus on strategic partnerships with Waikato Tainui to further unlock economic potential that will have benefits in generations to come.
Tainui Group Holdings is the commercial entity of Waikato-Tainui with the role of building the economic wealth of the iwi by growing and protecting investments in land and other assets.
With an asset base valued at $2.4b dollars Waikato Tainui are a powerful commercial entity and the regions largest developer.
Strong sub-regional partnerships
We are a one-stop shop for investors
We work closely with our economic development colleagues at a sub-regional level to ensure investors are navigated to the most appropriate location in the Waikato region.
We have joint work programmes with both Hamilton City Council and Waipaa District Council, and a strong affiliation with the Franklin economic broker.
We are a one-stop shop for investors seriously considering taking advantage of development opportunities on offer in the region.
Vibrant lifestyle and community
Family-friendly towns with a strong sense of community living
The Waikato district has one of New Zealand’s youngest populations, with an average age of just 38 years old.
Our family-friendly towns, a strong sense of community, and growing employment opportunities make the Waikato district an attractive place to live. This is why multiple generations of families choose to live here, and those who once left for other opportunities or endeavours are now returning to work and raise their families in our district.
The district’s community spirit creates an inspiring environment where businesses can thrive, and employees can enjoy a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle.
Rich cultural heritage
Home to the Kiingitanga movement
The Waikato district overlaps both Waikato and Ngaati Maniapoto tribal boundaries with the majority of the district being the ancestral home of the Maaori Queen, Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po and the Waikato people.
Waikato iwi is one of New Zealand’s largest iwi in both size and asset value and is home to the Kiingitanga movement.
With a rich blend of Maaori and European heritage the district is steeped in history. Its numerous historical sites and vibrant cultural events enrich the community and attract visitors year-round.
