Bronson PerichLocal Democracy Reporter·Waikato Herald·5 Aug, 2026 03:00 AM4 mins to read‌South Waikato District Council voted 9-2 in favour of the Western Unitary Authority. Photo / Mike ScottSouth Waikato District Council will pursue a Western Unitary Authority proposal.If Wellington accepts this, South Waikato will amalgamate with Waikato and Waipā Districts.Initially, Waitomo, Ōtorohanga, Taupō and Hamilton were also included in the Western Unitary Authority.

However, Waitomo and Ōtorohanga decided to form their own King Country Council,