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Collaborative leadership: A catalyst for regional growth and prosperity

As a leader in our region, I’ve seen first-hand how collaborative leadership can be a game-changer for the Waikato’s growth and prosperity. Let me share with you why I’m passionate about this approach and how it’s making a real difference for our region and beyond.In today’s world, the challenges we face can’t be solved by working in isolation. Solutions have to reach beyond geographic and political boundaries. Our work through initiatives such as the Mayoral Forum, the Upper North I...

The importance of regional spatial planning

Working together on a problem is almost always better than working in isolation. And that’s certainly true when it comes to regional spatial planning.But first, what is a spatial plan? Well, it’s basically a masterplan for our region. It sets out the long-term issues, opportunities and challenges for development and the environment. The Hamilton-Waikato Metropolitan Spatial Plan was approved by the Future Proof Implementation Committee in September 2020. But does it need to look wider than t...

Water storage key to raising productivity, managing volatile weather patterns

Water – in particular the storage of it – was a hot topic at last October’s Regional Growth Summit. And it’s top of mind for Waikato Regional Council too.Regional Development Minister Shane Jones encouraged applications to the $1billion-plus Regional Development Fund from Waikato water storage schemes. And Waikato-Tainui’s executive Te Arataura, Chair Tukoroirangi Morgan shared that the iwi is already looking at options for storage.The Government’s recognition of the need to increase...

The creative sector: We need to talk about funding to ensure the show goes on

During a tour of the new Waikato Regional Theatre recently, it was easy to imagine being seated in there, waiting for the show to begin. I love going to a concert with friends, to a movie or a play. I recently enjoyed a night out at the Waiuku Theatre where their rendition of Cinderella was a quirky, laugh-out-loud experience and a real credit to director Tremayne Thompson.There’s nothing quite like being at home, on the farm in Te Hoe. It’s my peaceful happy place, where I love listening to...

Regional Growth Summit represents huge opportunity to partner with central government

There's a huge amount of opportunity on our doorstep right now to work with central government in an enduring partnership to unlock opportunities for the benefit of NZ Inc. And that's exactly what we talked about at last week's Regional Growth Summit.The Summit was nothing short of inspirational and I'm so pleased we could showcase just how much the might Waikato has to offer New Zealand Inc.The Honourable Shane Jones, Minister for Regional Development, the Honourable Tama Potaka, Minister for M...