University and Waikato Regional Council strengthen partnership for the region

The University of Waikato and Waikato Regional Council have signed a new Partnership Agreement, strengthening their commitment to working together for the long-term benefit of the Waikato region. 

The three-year agreement builds on a longstanding relationship between the two organisations and provides a framework for greater collaboration across research, innovation, education, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, regional development and community connection.

The partnership will bring University researchers and students together with council staff and regional expertise, including through collaborative research projects and student placements and internships.

University of Waikato Vice-Chancellor Professor Neil Quigley says formalising the partnership builds on a strong relationship developed over many years. 

"The University and council share a strong commitment to the future of our region, and we have already seen what can be achieved by bringing our expertise together," Professor Quigley says. 

"Ultimately, it is about using those collective strengths to help address the challenges and opportunities facing the Waikato and deliver benefits for the communities we both serve.”

Waikato Regional Council Chief Executive Dr Chris McLay, who is both a Waikato alumnus and former lecturer, says the agreement will create more opportunities for the two organisations to work together.

“The calibre of students coming through the University of Waikato continually impresses us. This partnership creates valuable opportunities for students to work alongside our people, contribute to meaningful projects and build connections that can help shape the future workforce of the Waikato,” says Dr McLay. 

“It's a relationship that benefits both organisations and the wider region.”

Since 2020, more than 40 Waikato students have gained hands-on experience at the council through the University's Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) programme, which enables undergraduates to apply their learning through work placements or work-related projects. 

Students have contributed across areas including public transport, environmental science, civil and environmental engineering, and psychology.

Curtis Osborne is using computer science and data analytics knowledge collected through his Bachelor of Science degree in his role as a Spatial Analyst in Waikato Regional Council’s Spatial Information and Data Management team.

“The University's flexible approach to study and Waikato Regional Council's supportive internship programme helped me turn my interest in data analysis into a career,” Curtis says.

“Being able to apply my learning to real-world environmental challenges while completing my studies has been great.”

Another student making the most of the opportunities available is Rose Kyaw, who joined the Regional Transport team as an intern last year and, with her Bachelor of Business almost complete, will be stepping into a full-time role in public transport marketing and communications.

“Starting at Waikato Regional Council as a summer student during my studies has been one of the most rewarding parts of my university journey,” Rose says.

“Being able to apply what I was learning to real projects gave me invaluable experience, but the biggest difference has been the people. From day one, I felt welcomed, supported and encouraged to contribute ideas and grow professionally. I think my story is a great example of how strong partnerships between the University and the council can create meaningful pathways for students.”

Dr Chris McLay (left) with Professor Neil Quigley.