Waikato and the Bay of Plenty are in a unique position, leveraging off the economic drive of the ‘Golden Triangle’. Our region is a key North Island hub, poised to respond positively to the planned transport connections to Auckland.
The Central Committee advocates for a thriving commercial property industry that has a positive impact on the region and its people. With substantial population growth forecasted in the region over the next 30 years, a comprehensive sub-regional spatial plan that outlines where future development will occur is needed.
We are calling for an integrated approach to planning that will provide investment certainty for the industry and ensure a diversified, modern economy that grows jobs and enables the property sector to thrive.
Veros Property
Central Regional Chair
In the regions, our regular projects include Long-term Plans, Annual Plans, District and Spatial Plans, rates differentials and development contributions. In addition to this, each Regional Committee also choose one priority to focus on for the year, with Central’s being:
With market conditions shifting rapidly, staying informed isn’t optional – it’s essential. Join us for the Waikato Market Outlook, a focused lunchtime session designed to give property professionals the
Join us over lunch in Tauranga for an engaging Women in Property panel discussion exploring the many pathways to leadership, ownership, and long-term career progression within the property industry.
The Central Regional Committee assists the Property Council team to formulate our local advocacy strategy and plan member events and initiatives in the region.
The current Committee is in effect from 1 November 2025.
The Local Government Briefing Paper has been produced in advance of the 2025 Local Government Elections to provide candidates – many of whom are unfamiliar with the property industry – with a simple guide to the challenges faced, solutions available and potential impact for their city or region.
The document outlines five key workstreams:
Singing off the same song sheet nationwide also helps ensure consistency across our national and regional advocacy workstreams. It is a working document that will evolve over time as policies are announced and issues arise, with the current version available for download by members upon logging in here. 👉
The Central Property People Awards celebrate and recognise the people behind the projects in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.
We did it again! Thursday 23 October 2025 saw us host an unforgettable night of connection, celebration, and recognition at the Central Property People Awards!
Over 300 industry leaders, changemakers and rising stars joined us in honouring the people driving progress across the region. Thank you to everyone who helped celebrate the occasion, and congratulations to all the winners!
On 24 April 2026, Property Council submitted on Dunedin City Council’s Draft Annual Plan 2026/27. Why this matters to our members The Draft Annual Plan 2026/27 sets out what Dunedin City Council proposes to achieve in the coming financial year. It explains the services and activities that Dunedin City Council intends to deliver, how it will fund them, and the expected impact on rates and debt. Our view Property Council is concerned that the Draft Annual Plan proposes significant increases to rates and fees, and continuing the rating differential for commercial properties, adding to existing pressures on ratepayers and investment. A stronger focus is needed on managing expenditure, improving transparency, and adopting alternative funding approaches – especially for debt repayment.
On 24 April 2026, Property Council submitted on Queenstown Lakes District Council’s Draft Annual Plan 2026/27. Why this matters to our members The Draft Annual Plan 2026/27 sets out Queenstown Lakes District Council’s planned spend for the coming year and the funding sources to pay for it. The Draft Annual Plan will influence the provision of community services and facilities, with impacts for business and household budgets. Our view The Draft Annual Plan proposes significant rates increases. Property Council is concerned about the effects on ratepayers and investment. A stronger focus is needed on managing the scale of expenditure, improving transparency, and adopting alternative funding approaches which apportion costs fairly. At a high level, we recommended that Queenstown Lakes District
On 24 April 2026, Property Council submitted on the Commerce (Commerce Commission Reform) Amendment Bill. Why this matters to our members Strengthening the governance and decision-making framework of the Commerce Commission will mean more efficient, timely, and consistent regulatory decisions. This improves accountability and builds confidence in the system, giving the property sector greater certainty that outcomes are robust and transparent. Our view Our comments focus on the interaction between the Bill and the proposed development levies scheme and are not intended to address the Bill more broadly. The detailed regulatory approach for how the Commerce Commission will oversee development levies is not yet fully clear. While we support the proposed governance reforms, their effectiveness in the context of development
Property Council has several dynamic and engaged member taskforces and committees, who provide insight and support our team with a range of initiatives. These groups are ever-changing and are open to all members.
We also have numerous opportunities for sponsors to partner with us to produce and support local events.
Please contact your Regional Manager for further information:
