The Demographics                                                                                                              
The Waikato is the fourth largest region in New Zealand, and is home to 522,600 people,
which represents 9.5 per cent of New Zealand's total population.  It is one of the fastest growing

regions in the country.

Covering 25,000 square kilometres, the Waikato region stretches from the Bombay Hills and
Port Waikato in the north down to the Kaimai Ranges and Mt Ruapehu in the south, and from
Mokau on the west coast across to the Coromandel Peninsula in the east. The region has
1,138 km of coastline.
 

The Waikato region has:

• the longest river in New Zealand (the Waikato River)

• the largest lake (Lake Taupō)

• internationally significant wetlands

• the country’s most important geothermal systems

• extensive native and exotic forests, and

• Tongariro National Park.

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The Economy

​The subnational gross domestic product (GDP)

of Waikato is $32,789m (2023), this represents a

significant proportion of New Zealand's national GDP. 

GDP per capita sits at $40,964. (2023) and the mean household income at $109,483.

 

The region's economy is based on health care and social assistance, Professional scientific and technical services, Agriculture, forestry and fishing, administration and support services, and finally, arts and recreation services.  

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The Waikato region is one of the most productive regions in New Zealand. Its prime location and diverse economy are the springboard for innovation and boundless opportunity.  It has a unique role to play in the economic powerhouse known as the Golden Triangle, made up of Auckland, Tauranga and Hamilton. 

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Economic development activities in Waikato are led by Te Waka.  Formally established on 6 July 2018, Te Waka is a business-led and governed organisation established to drive economic growth in the Waikato.
 

Te Waka is all about helping the Waikato reach its full potential. Its objectives are to:

• Lift economic performance across the Waikato region.

• Attract, retain and grow investment, talent and business across the region.

• Champion and lead the region’s collective voices for economic and business needs and opportunities.
   

Te Waka works in partnership with existing economic development, iwi, business, government and community organisations to get things done and to unearth opportunities that will lead to jobs, prosperity and sustainable economic growth for everybody, thereby improving well-being for all communities.

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​The Climate

The Waikato has a moderate level of annual rainfall, ensuring excellent growing conditions year round. The maximum temperature averages 13.5 degrees Celsius in July and 24.2 degrees Celsius in February.

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Councils

Waikato Regional Council

Hamilton City Council

Taupo District Council

Waikato District Council

Thames Coromandel District Council 

Hauraki District Council

Waitomo District Council

South Waikato District Council

Matamata - Piako

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Useful Links

Follow this link to learn about how to set up operations in NZ, raising capital and investor visas.