Areas of AgResearch's research at Ruakura include animal molecular biology (genomics and cloning), reproductive technologies, agricultural systems modelling, land management, dairy science, meat science, food processing technology and safety, and animal behaviour and welfare.

Work is also carried out on biological control agents and plant fertilizer (Ruakura solution).

[4] The Waikato region is a major contributor to New Zealand's agricultural-based economy, and Ruakura has an important role in that industry.

The long-term plan for Ruakura is that it will be New Zealand's largest integrated commercial and lifestyle development anchored by a freight and logistics hub.

[11] Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Toku Mapihi Maurea is a coeducational full primary school (years 1–8) with a roll of 102.

[14] Ruakura had a railway station from 1 October 1884 to 1 January 1967[15] at the junction of the East Coast Main Trunk and the Cambridge Branch.

[19] In 2016, approval was given to create an employment area, with an inland port, served by the railway and the Hamilton Bypass.

[24][25][23] Businesses in the area include a Kmart Distribution Centre and cold storage depots.

[26] In July 2022, the New Zealand division of Kmart announced plans to shift their Auckland distribution centre to Hamilton,[27] with permission of the Waikato-Tainui iwi.

[26] The 2016 Structure Plan included residential development to the north and south of the employment areas.

[31] Greenhill Park is a medium density suburb at the north west of the development, begun in 2016,[32] It adjoins Fairview Downs.