South Waikato Backs Western Unitary Authority ProposalAugust 5, 2026South Waikato District Council will pursue a Western Unitary Authority proposal. If the Government 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. At South Waikato District Council’s July 30 meeting, elected members voted 9-2 in favour of the Western Unitary Authority. Advertisement - scroll to continue reading“We are of the view that the Western Waikato Unitary presents the best alignment and opportunities for the South Waikato.