Last month, I wrote about the power of collaborative leadership in driving the Waikato region’s growth and prosperity. A month on, we have a concrete example of how this approach is yielding tangible results for our region.
The Waikato Mayoral Forum last month agreed on a ‘light touch’ regional deal proposal, which has now been submitted to the government. The proposal is testament to the strength of our collaborative efforts and showcases how regional leaders can come together to create a unified vision for growth.
The proposal, developed by Waikato Regional Council with guidance from a Chief Executive Working Group, represents a cohesive and aligned package aimed at driving economic growth, ensuring quality and affordable housing, and fostering resilient and connected rural communities. It is this collaborative approach that leads to comprehensive solutions that benefit our entire region.
Pamela Storey. At home on the farm, Te Hoe, near Hamilton. Photo: Stephen Barker.
Our proposal recognises the symbiotic relationship between Hamilton’s growth and the broader region’s development. It positions the Waikato as a strategic investment opportunity for New Zealand, leveraging our central location within the golden triangle.
So just what is in the proposal? It includes a range of projects that will bring significant benefits to the region: Infrastructure improvements supporting Roads of National Significance; investment in the golden triangle road and rail programme; development of priority areas through the Future Proof package; support for growing rural centres; construction of resilient transport corridors; infrastructure to boost tourism; investment in renewable energy, and water security initiatives.
We haven’t come up with brand new projects. We’ve deliberately looked at areas that need investment now, and into the future. It’s a practical approach. And one that the Mayoral Forum agreed we didn’t want to put a dollar figure on. Rather, we want to work with central government to create an enduring partnership to fund and deliver the projects over time.
Waikato has consistently outperformed national growth rates. As the fourth-largest regional economy in New Zealand, with a significant $1.4 billion contribution from the Māori economy, we are well-positioned to drive national economic growth.
As we await the government’s response to our proposal, I’m more convinced than ever that our collaborative approach is the key to unlocking Waikato’s full potential. We’re working together. Not just to shape our region’s future. We’re contributing to the growth and prosperity of New Zealand as a whole.
This regional deal proposal is just the beginning. It sets the stage for continued collaboration and innovation, ensuring that Waikato remains a driving force in New Zealand’s economy while providing a quality of life for those us who live here, do business here, and visit here, that is second to none.
