It’s a great feeling to learn that Waipā’s is once again leading Waikato region’s commercial boom according to data just released by Quarterly Economic Monitor.
Waipā’s commercial growth has continued with gusto even during the pandemic. That’s demonstrated by the wave of building and resource consents submitted to the council in 2021 with a capital value of $456 million. Over the last year, in terms of commercial growth, Waipā consistently outperformed the rest of the Waikato and New Zealand as more investors realise the unique potential our district has to offer.
The airport precinct Titanium Park is our trump card for commercial activity. It hosts numerous local, national and international businesses. Master planning is underway for the next stage called Northern Precinct, which will potentially bring a further 100 hectares of commercial and industrial opportunities to the district and of course more employment.
On the topic of employment, I’m delighted Waipā is punching above its weight for those economic indicators that count. The latest Economic Monitor shows we are enjoying strong employment growth and a low unemployment rate compared to the New Zealand average and other parts of Waikato.
Significant development is earmarked for Cambridge West including a new retirement facility, primary school and plenty of residential housing. A major reason people choose to live in Cambridge is due to its village feel, so it’s important residents in the new development feel physically and emotionally connected with the town. We’re building infrastructure to connect with the rest of Cambridge including options to walk, cycle or bus to Cambridge CBD and also Hamilton City and surrounding areas.
A diverse economy has helped create economic resilience for the district during COVID-19. Waipā has remained in a fortunate position, insulated from the harshest impacts of the pandemic compared with other districts and regions in New Zealand. Current indicators show that Waipā ’s diverse and stable economy is showing no signs of slowing down.
Food, farming, manufacturing and technology are at the heart of our flourishing economy. Many businesses have relocated to Waipā because of its agile workforce, excellent lifestyle, high standard of education and opportunities in the commercial and industrial sectors. With dedicated commercial sites in Cambridge, Te Awamutu and the Airport, businesses can make the most of our proximity to major city centres and New Zealand’s economic golden triangle (Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga).
The council’s vision is Waipā Home of Champions, building connected communities. We are focused on creating communities that are attractive for people to live, work, play and invest in. It must be working because the Waipā population is growing as more people recognise our district as a hidden gem. And who can blame them? People love our community spirit, laid back vibe and boutique townships brimming with character.
Economists from Westpac agree. They have placed Waipā in the top five future hot spots in New Zealand for people to live, work and invest.
Waipā District Council intends to keep leading the way by supporting business investment and commercial opportunities in our district. It’s all about creating an ecosystem in Waikato’s heartland, designed to help our new and existing enterprises prosper. Our team is busy designing frameworks to keep up with the ‘boom momentum’ we are currently experiencing. So, keep an eye out for savvy new initiatives over the coming months such as the Economic Wellbeing Strategy and the Waipā Community Spatial Plan.
Written By
Jim Mylchreest – Waipā District
Council Mayor
