The Waipā District, located in the heart of the Waikato region, is steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Originally formed in 1989 through the amalgamation of Waipā County and its boroughs, the area has long been a hub for Māori settlement and agricultural development. Historic events such as Rewi Maniapoto’s leadership in the Kīngitanga movement and the establishment of flour mills in the 1800s highlight its deep roots in both resistance and innovation
Today, Waipā thrives on dairy farming, cereal production, and equine industries, with Cambridge renowned for thoroughbred horse studs. The district’s population reached approximately 61,400 in June 2024, with Cambridge (22,400 residents) and Te Awamutu (13,800 residents) as its main towns. Waipā has experienced steady growth, with a 25.8% population increase since 2013.
Whilst the rest of New Zealand is seeing a slowdown in rents, the wider Waikato region including Waipā District has continued to see a strong demand for rental properties with rents holding. Data provided by OneHub powered by Trade Me has shown a 5% increase in rents for August 2025 v August 2024 with the median rent being $660 per week. Stock moves quickly with an average of 17 days for property listings on Trade Me, even though stock has increased by 34%. The median rent is now surpassing New Zealand and catching up with Auckland.
