Members of the WDC Council 2025 - Image from WDC
If you’ve ever thought about running for Council – or even just wondered what councillors actually do – the Waikato District Council’s newly released 2025 Pre-Election Report is a great place to start.
This report gives a down-to-earth overview of where the Council is at right now, what’s on the horizon, and the major issues shaping the future of our district. Whether you're considering standing for mayor, councillor, or community board, it’s designed to help you understand what the job involves – and why having your voice at the table could make a real difference.
Waikato District Council Chief Executive Craig Hobbs says the report is intended to support anyone considering getting involved in the upcoming local elections.
“Standing for Council is a big decision,” says Craig. “The Pre-Election Report gives a realistic picture of what’s involved and how fresh perspectives can help shape the future of our communities.
We want people across the district to feel confident taking part in local democracy – whether that’s by standing, voting, or simply getting more engaged.”
The report covers a range of key topics – including the Council’s current financial position, progress on long-term plans, and updates on critical infrastructure projects. It also lays out some of the challenges ahead and highlights the responsibilities and opportunities that come with being an elected member.
Even if you’re not planning to stand, it’s still worth a read. The report offers a clear explanation of how Council works, what’s changing, and how Council is preparing the district for the future – including upgrades to infrastructure and stronger partnerships with mana whenua and community groups.
One major decision facing voters this year is a binding poll on whether to keep or remove Maori wards in the Waikato District. These wards provide dedicated seats for Maori representation in local government decision-making.
While the outcome of the poll will be known in 2025, any change won’t take effect until 2028. If the result supports keeping Maori wards, elections for those seats will be held in 2028 and 2031. If voters choose to remove them, no further elections will be held for those seats from 2028 onward.
“This is a significant decision for our district,” Craig Hobbs says.
“It’s important that voters understand how the process works and what the outcomes could mean – whichever way the vote goes.”
You can read the full 2025 Pre-Election Report on the Council’s website by CLICKING HERE.
