Waikato:
Waikato is one of the faster-growing regions in New Zealand, it is home to over half a million people. It’s a fertile land and thriving industries make it one of New Zealand’s economic heartlands, and many communities enjoy a strong sense of place and connection. However, there are real challenges. Parts of the region face an increasing demographic shift from Auckland to the region; therefore, planning for increase services and housing is needed, there is high deprivation, particularly in South Waikato & Hamilton. Some areas of concern include increased crime, homelessness, youth vulnerability and mental health issues. According to a 2023 census, Christian affiliation is now a majority in the Waikato with “no religion” being the largest group.
Prayer Points:
- Provision, protection & pathways out of poverty
- Mental health & suicide: comfort for grieving families, help for the vulnerable & strength for frontline workers
- Youth & rangatahi: purpose, mentors & healthy transitions into study/work
- Local organisations working in the Waikato region: support, finances & volunteers Improved Bi-cultural relations, planning for the increasing multi-ethnic communities migrating to Waikato
Kirikiriroa Hamilton Prayer Breakfast:
The Kirikiriroa Hamilton Prayer Breakfast has been running for 6 years. It’s the largest gathering of Christian leaders and Pastors from various churches and denominations in the Waikato region. Last year we had around 450 attendees. Our 2025 theme is UNITY and is based on Ephesians 4:3 “Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” Our prayer is to see Kirikiriroa Hamilton a city that is united in and across its Churches, families, and communities.
Prayer Points:
* For the planning and preparation of our Prayer Breakfast
Leadership
- For unity within the Church and church Leaders
- For the Holy Spirit to refresh and renew the Senior Pastors & Leadership within Hamilton churches
Young People & Families
- Unity in homes – that families will serve God together in love and peace.
- A generation of young people who know and follow Jesus.
- God’s protection over children, teenagers, and families from the enemy’s schemes.
- Parents, grandparents, and mentors to boldly disciple and guide the next generation.
Mission of God / Discipleship
- That all Christian believers in our city would see themselves as disciples on mission for God.
- For unity between churches, denominations and ministries as we serve the same Lord.
- That barriers of race, class, and culture would be broken through the power of the Gospel.
- For fresh boldness and compassion to disciple families, neighbours, and workplaces.
- That Kirikiriroa would be known as a city where Christ is lifted high in love and truth
Prayer & Unity – Christian Churches transforming our city