Regional councils tackle tasks that demand a regional approach. Their duties include:

• managing and conserving natural resources (water, soil, air, geothermal areas, and coasts)
• developing regional transport plans and coordinating passenger transport services
• protecting and restoring biodiversity - controlling invasive plant and animal species
• designing and maintaining flood protection and drainage systems
• ensuring safe water usage for all users
• addressing pollution issues promptly
• preparing communities for civil defence and effectively coordinating disaster response efforts.

Every decision made by councillors significantly impacts the lives of Waikato residents, today and for the future. Elected members have the responsibility to represent the interests of all residents and ratepayers in the region, going beyond their immediate constituencies.

The council can act only through majority decisions made at its monthly full council meetings unless otherwise directed by the Local Government Act 2002 or the council’s standing orders. Even the chairperson must follow these collective decisions unless granted special powers.

City and district councils, also known as territorial authorities, operate within smaller geographic areas. Their primary responsibilities include:

• providing essential services such as local roads, water supply, wastewater management, rubbish collection, parking, and public toilets
• developing and maintaining community facilities including libraries, parks, sports fields, pools, and playgrounds
• administering and enforcing the district plan, which covers land use and subdivisions ensuring community health and safety through animal control, building regulation, and liquor licensing.

These councils work collectively to govern and improve the quality of life for residents within their jurisdictions.