Waikato tourism returning to pre-Covid boom days
Waikato could be heading into its strongest summer tourism season since the pandemic as international visitor numbers sky-rocket.
Jordan Smith, Local Democracy Reporter
Waikato Regional Council posts $40m loss on public transport as fares rise
More people are using Waikato’s public transport network but the regional council has still taken a $40 million loss on operational costs. And ticket prices are about to go up for bus and train users, as the council tries to ensure fares cover more of the cost of the service.
Funnell: Taupō rejects "Western Waikato" merger, warns of debt blowout to $9000 a rating unit
Taupō District Mayor John Funnell says the council will not be part of a "Western Waikato Unitary Authority," calling the push a "hostile takeover" and warning debt per rating unit could rise from $900 to almost $9000 if Taupō were included.
Chilly chimps: How Hamilton Zoo keeps its residents warm during winter blast
How Hamilton Zoo keeps its residents warm in a winter blast
Funding sought for Waikato's new $4.5b energy strategy
The man behind Waikato Regional Council’s new 2050 energy strategy plan claims it will boost jobs, reduce emissions by 77% and pump another 1.5% into GDP. However, some hold reservations about the strategy’s validity and it’s 10 year, $4.5 billion cost.
New e-bike charging stations valued at $900,000 for Hauraki and Tāupo trails
The Government has earmarked $900,000 for charging stations on two Waikato trails, saying e-biking is ‘gaining real momentum’.
Waikato lawmakers praise $1.8 billion Expressway vow
The near $1.8 billion dollar funding for the Waikato Expressway’s Cambridge to Piarere extension has left local and central government alike ecstatic