A Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) is a company, trust, or joint venture in which one or more local authorities hold a controlling interest - usually through at least 50% or more of voting rights or the power to appoint half or more of the governing body.
We use CCOs to help deliver services, manage assets, and support community and economic development. They operate at arm’s length from Council but remain accountable under the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA).
Exempt CCOs
Under section 7 of the LGA, councils may exempt a CCO from the usual reporting and accountability requirements when the organisation:
- operates on a small scale,
- is non-commercial, or
- serves a community or charitable purpose where full CCO compliance would create unnecessary cost.
Exempt CCOs are not required to produce a Statement of Intent, annual report, or half-yearly report.
We regularly review each exemption to ensure it remains appropriate.
Our Exempt CCOs
We currently have three exempt CCOs:
- Martha Trust - manages mine-related land in Waihī, including tailings and the pit lake area, to support long-term recreational outcomes after mine closure.
- Destination Hauraki Coromandel Trust - promotes the Coromandel and supports tourism-driven economic activity across the region.
- Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust - governs and manages the Hauraki Rail Trail cycleway.
Non-Exempt CCOs
Our non-exempt CCOs must meet full LGA reporting requirements, including publishing Statements of Intent and performance reporting.
Links to their public documents are available below.
Our Non-Exempt CCOs
Co-Lab (Waikato Local Authority Shared Services Ltd) - Shared services entity jointly owned by Waikato councils.
