Community consultation on Waikato District Council’s draft 2025-2034 Long Term Plan (LTP) closed on Sunday 11 May 2025.

Council received over 550 submissions from a broad mix of people and organisations across the Waikato district, with strong feedback on roading, water services community halls, affordability, and waste services. Submitters represented a wide range of ages, ethnicities, and property types, highlighting the diversity of voices contributing to the conversation.

Waikato District Mayor Jacqui Church says it is great to see so many people taking the time to have their say.

“Thanks to everyone who gave us feedback. It is important we hear what matters to you so we can make good decisions for the future,” she says.

“Times are tough for many, so we have focused on making sure we invest wisely on what matters most and planning properly for our growing population.”

People shared their perspectives through a variety of channels, including community events, online forums, and written submissions. In addition to these formal avenues, elected members also gathered valuable feedback through social media interactions and informal, direct conversations with community members, ensuring a broad understanding of public views."

The Long Term Plan (LTP) sets out what Council plans to do over the next nine years – including how we will look after roads, water, rubbish, parks, libraries, and more.

This plan includes proposals for water services, roading, rubbish and recycling, and some of our community halls. To keep our current services running and deliver important projects, we are proposing property rate increases between 4.25% and 11% depending on the services received and location.

More than 70 people are expected to speak to their submissions. The hearings will run today and tomorrow at the Council Chambers in Ngaaruawaahia and are available to watch online via our website.

Councillors consider all the feedback before making final decisions. The final Long Term Plan (LTP) will be adopted by 30 June 2025.

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