Hello Everyone
From beaches to bushland, from wetlands to water the Waikato district has a lot to offer. In November when our boundary expands to incorporate part of the Franklin district, we will become one of the largest Councils by area and certainly one of the strongest.
Farming plays a large part in the local economy. Dairy, drystock and the new Zealong tea farm are economically significant for this district.
Our coal mining, and sand and aggregate extraction companies are also key contributors. The huge chimneys of Huntly Power Station rising into the sky are undeniably synonymous with the Waikato district.
We are the motor racing capital of New Zealand, which I am very proud of. We have a fantastic line-up with the Huntly stock cars, the Meremere drag strip, and the recently opened Hampton Downs.
The mighty Waikato River that runs throughout our district is home to the centre of the Maori Kingitanga Movement. With Council entering into a Joint Management Agreement with Waikato-Tainui, we are in a fantastic position to formalise relations with the Movement and Iwi.
The Waikato district is renowned for its wonderful walkways at Lake Hakanoa, Lake Puketirini, the Hakarimatas, and around our wetlands. The Hakarimata Walkway takes you through native forest with huge kauri trees, a rare sight in the Waikato.
And then there is our seaside town of Raglan. With a world famous surf beach, it has arguably the longest left hand ride in the world.
This year the Waikato District will go from strength to strength as it grows in size, assets and resources. These are exciting times, and I would encourage you to get out there and explore what the Waikato has to offer - why should the tourists have all the fun!
Mayor Peter Harris