Office of the Mayor
News Release

8 June 2012

Auckland and Waikato District announce alliance

Auckland and Waikato District Council have signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Alliance.

The agreement establishes what is described as “a long-term collaborative working relationship with regard to cross-boundary issues of mutual interest.”

Auckland Mayor Len Brown says the agreement is important not only because the two councils share a common boundary from Kariotahi Beach on the Tasman Sea virtually all the way to the Firth of Thames.

”Waikato District forms the gateway to Auckland from the south and it’s important we work together to ensure we both benefit from that relationship,” says Len Brown.

The memorandum covers matters such as planning, development, transport and economic growth.

Waikato Mayor Allan Sanson says the two councils may have different priorities but it is important to work together in an open and collaborative way.

“It is important and in the interests of all ratepayers that we take a holistic view of issues such as planning and economic development. Transport issues are also a priority for both councils,” he said.

The creation of Auckland Council resulted in the expansion of the Waikato District as the former Franklin District was broken up with the north joining Auckland and the south joining Waikato and Hauraki Districts.

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