The Waikato is known for its rolling plains, fertile land and the mighty Waikato River. The region is the fourth largest regional economy in New Zealand, with a strong focus on primary production and associated manufacturing.
Some of the major industries in Waikato include dairy farming, forestry and wood, higher education, manufacturing, and health and community services. But there's a lot more to the region than that: Waikato, and especially the city of Hamilton, is developing a solid reputation for its growing digital economy.
There's a strong focus on projects to support its fast-growing population, address gaps in skills and labour, grow its global reach, and build on its advantageous location at the heart of the North Island.
The Waikato region published its 20-year economic development strategy, Waikato Means Business, in 2014.