The Waikato District and our Tangata Whenua

Future Focused District

Building for the future

Waikato is one of the fastest-growing districts in New Zealand, alongside Selwyn, Hamilton, and Queenstown.
Growth brings new opportunities - more jobs, more housing, and more vibrant communities.
It also brings big challenges - more people means more demand for roads, water, wastewater, and services.
We are investing wisely so growth is managed, not overwhelming - keeping costs fair while building for the future.

Keeping rates affordable

Our rates increases (2023–26) are among the lowest in our peer group.
This means we are balancing affordability with investment in services.
Growth helps spread the cost of services across more people.
We are committed to keeping rates fair and sustainable.

Strong financial management

We hold an AA+ credit rating — the highest possible in NZ.
Our debt levels are lower than most high-growth councils.
Financial prudence underpins every decision we make.

Future focused

We are preparing for decades of growth.
Our future investment focuses on core infrastructure and community wellbeing.
By keeping rates steady and debt low, we are protecting future generations.
We will continue to be transparent and share how your money is used.

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The Waikato District

Our main centres are Ngaaruawaahia, Huntly, Raglan, Te Kauwhata, Pookeno and Tuakau. Our smaller settlements include Gordonton, Matangi, Te Kowhai, Whatawhata, Tamahere, Meremere, Port Waikato and Taupiri.

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Towns in our district

Ngaaruawaahia

Ngaaruawaahia is located in the heart of the Kiingitanga movement and Turangawaewae marae. It is in this township, where the Waikato and Waipaa rivers come together as one. Other notable events are the annual Koroneihana and Regatta celebrations that draws thousands of visitors to the township. The Haakarimata Summit Track is also located here and is home to many Kauri and native flora and fauna.

Huntly

Huntly is home to one of the largest power stations in New Zealand and was once home to underground and open cast mines in Rotowaro and Huntly East (now closed). Some of the attractions in Huntly include; the 3.5km Hakanoa Walkway and Lake Puketerini, a former open cast mine that is now enjoyed for sailing, boating, skiing, kayaking and waka ama.

Tuakau

Tuakau is a small town with a large rural community. The town is experiencing growth. Tuakau is big on vegetable growing because of its high quality soils and they have the largest stock sale yard in New Zealand.

Pookeno

Pookeno is one of our fastest growing towns. Once a sleepy village, the town’s population is currently around 3,000 but is estimated to soar to 12,000 by 2045. Some of the attractions in Pookeno include large ice creams, Pookeno Bacon and a new supermarket.

Te Kauwhata

Te Kauwhata is a growing town just south of the Hampton Downs Motorsport Park. The town boasts an award winning Library. Some of the attractions in and around Te Kauwhata include; Whangamarino Wetlands and the Rangiriri Battle Site. The Rongopai Winery, home of Invivo Wines and internationally acclaimed food producers, was one of NZ’s pioneer viticulture areas.

Raglan

Raglan is a coastal town that gets very popular during the summer months, where it grows to more than 10 times its size. The town is very famous for its black sand beaches, calm waters of the harbour and internationally acclaimed left hand surf break at Manu Bay. Attractions in Raglan are Bridal Veil Falls and the Pipiwharauroa Trail to the windfarm. Raglan has a huge range of activities including; surfing, swimming, kayaking and fishing, and is known for its arts and crafts, as well as its commitment to environmental issues.

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