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Jacqui Church is standing for mayor in the Waikato District.
Waikato is rich in opportunity and powered by incredible people. It has been an honour
serving as your mayor since 2022 and previously as a councillor since 2013.
As a proven change-agent, business owner and awarded community volunteer, I offer informed, proactive and authentic leadership that delivers for you.
Tough economic times are impacting everyone. High inflation is pushing costs up across the
board. Rapid growth is placing pressure on ageing infrastructure.
Meanwhile, you deserve fair rates, fit-for-purpose infrastructure and services, and cost-
efficiency. From day one, that’s been my priority, and we’ve achieved a lot together.
As mayor, I’ve delivered change and driven much-needed reforms. We’ve kept costs down
while supporting post-cyclone recovery, improved infrastructure and services, and reformed
council so it better serves you.
while supporting post-cyclone recovery, improved infrastructure and services, and reformed
council so it better serves you.
Rate increases are tough on families and businesses. We’ve kept increases significantly
lower than national averages and below neighbouring councils. Rates must be affordable,
especially in hard times.
Council’s executive team ballooned under the previous mayor. I’m fixing that. I’ve appointed a new future-focused CEO and am streamlining the leadership team for the first time in over a decade — from 11 to just six.
I’m cleaning up the debt burden left by the previous council. Our Long Term Plan
rationalises spending, significantly reduces debt, and budgets more effectively council-wide.
Infrastructure assets are funded responsibly with a focus on intergenerational affordability.
We secured NZ’s first 3waters partnership with Hamilton City Council: IAWAI Flowing
Waters. This will ensure your future targeted water rates are fair and affordable. It will deliver scalable, sustainable and cost-effective waters that support growth, affordability, housing, jobs, and environmental improvements.
We revolutionised the previous council’s decade-old roading system and won significant
additional government funding. We’ve engaged two new roading contractors, cut costs, and
improved asset management and oversight.
Over half of our residents live rurally. I’m ensuring your voices are heard in decision-making through our first-ever Rural Economic Advisory Panel and Rural, Lifestyle Blocks and Rural Villages Strategy.
Transformation takes time. There’s more to do.
Together, we’re building a modern, fit-for-purpose, and people-focused council that delivers
for you. Let’s continue building a thriving Waikato, together.
