The Waikato Story – a toolkit of resources to help promote and drive economic growth in the region – has been launched by Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce in Hamilton today.

The resource defines what's unique about the Waikato and provides a framework to help better communicate the region's value to potential business investors, workers, visitors, students and families, in New Zealand and around the world.

Waikato Means Business steering group acting chair Parekawhia McLean says the Waikato Story is a key priority of the group's strategy designed to lift regional performance.

'We have one of New Zealand's largest and most diverse regional economies, location advantage, a stunning natural environment, relatively affordable housing, high quality education and strong community networks that are good for business.

'Those who live here know we have a great quality of life – some 84 per cent of us rate our quality of life as good or extremely good. But we know we could be louder and prouder about the distinct and unique attributes of the place we call home – and that's where the Waikato Story fits in.

'The mighty Waikato region has a really great story to tell.”

The Waikato Story was developed with the help of hundreds of locals who shared their ideas, feedback and pride in the region.

Funded and coordinated by Waikato Regional Council with support from WEL Energy Trust, the Waikato Story builds on the success of the New Zealand Story launched in 2013.

It highlights the region's competitive advantage and supports the region's growth aspirations by making available free marketing resources which includes images, videos, data and stories.

Parekawhia says currently when people think of the Waikato they often think of fields and cows, a reflection of the strong local dairy sector, but the region 'is far more than that”.

'It's home to innovative thinkers who share the attitude of mahia te mahi – getting the job done – and it's that philosophy that has led to the creation of great Waikato-manufactured products and services to sell here and around the world. Getting that story out is crucial.”

Besides launching the Waikato Story, the event also launched the Waikato International Education Strategy, another key plank of Waikato Means Business.

International education is one of the top 10 industries in the Waikato and its economic impact is over $150 million yearly to the local economy, a significant contribution to the region and New Zealand.

'Waikato's educational institutions are one of the region's strengths. Through the Waikato Story and the new Waikato International Education Strategy even more people will learn about the strength of education in the region.”

To access the full Waikato Story visit: www.waikatostory.nz

The University of Waikato – a modern campus by night. Photo: waikatostory.nz