The Mighty Waikato is home to the fourth largest regional economy in New Zealand, generating $23 billion GDP a year from a range of sectors which together create 8.5 percent of NZ’s GDP (Stats NZ 2017). With a population of some 460,000 people and a changing demographic profile including a growing number of young tamariki, combined with increasing skills shortages and demand for more work-ready employees, the key to sustaining and developing current economic and industrial growth lies in fostering a skilled and motivated workforce. 

Six key industries in the Waikato make up 97 percent of the regional economy and 95 percent of the local workforce, including the ICT sector a growth sector within the Waikato, which largely seeks professionals (with bachelor degree and above qualifications), along with sales staff and personal services workers.

The Waikato Labour Market Strategy explores ways to ensure that businesses can attract, develop and retain the skills they need to grow, along with aiming to increase the levels of literacy and numeracy and educational attainment in our youth and workforce.

We are working closely with Te Waka: Waikato Economic Development Agency and other stakeholders to collaboratively implement a three-year programme to build, attract and retain skills and talent in the ICT sector.