Operative Waikato Regional Policy Statement (October 2000)

3 Significant Resource Management Issues, Objectives, Policies and Methods

3.2 An Introduction to the Waikato Region

3.2.1 Overview

The Waikato Region covers most of the central North Island (see Map 1). It stretches from Port Waikato down to Mokau on the west coast, and across to the Coromandel Peninsula on the east coast. In the south, it extends to the slopes of Mt. Ruapehu, covering a total area of 25,000 square kilometres.

It encompasses eight district councils, one city council and the parts of three other district councils.

Some of the features that contribute to the special character of the Waikato Region include: its wetlands, peat lakes, river systems; Lake Taupo, forested areas, landscapes, its diverse coastline, land types and ecosystems.

The comparatively mild, moist climate and varied topography (e.g. from dune to wetland to alpine) has encouraged a richness and diversity of native plant and animal life that is greater than most parts of New Zealand. However, rapid modification and development of the Region, and a change to more intensive use of resources has seen a decline in the number of indigenous animal and plant species.

In addition to these geographic and ecological features, the Region has buildings, places and features of cultural, architectural, historic and scientific interest.

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