City and Regional Deals are a new concept to New Zealand that establishes a 10-year strategic partnership between central and local government to provide for economic growth, regional infrastructure and affordable housing.
Last week the Government announced it has signed the first MOU to negotiate deals with Auckland, Otago Central Lakes and Western Bay of Plenty.
The Auckland region deal is with Auckland Council. The Otago Central Lakes regional deal is with Queenstown Lakes District Council, Central Otago District Council and Otago Regional Council. The Western Bay of Plenty regional deal is with Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council.
Each Deal will be based on a 30-year vision for the region and be implemented through a 10-year strategic plan with clear outcomes and actions.
The Government will now progress Deal discussions with these three regions, with first Deal to be agreed by the end of 2025.
Property Council will be closely following the December announcement as to the details that are agreed upon, as we are supportive of City and Regional Deals as a way to deliver long-term certainty for regions and unlock much-needed supportive infrastructure for development.
Author | Katherine Wilson
As Property Council’s Head of Advocacy, Katherine is tasked with leading our advocacy campaigns at both a regional and national level.
Level-headed and engaging, Katherine has both a law degree from Otago University and an arts degree (majoring in politics) from Auckland University. With solid experience as a policy analyst and advisor in Wellington and Auckland, she has extensive networks and solid analytical skills.
Katherine is hugely dedicated, highly intelligent and committed to ensuring the voice of our members is heard at all levels of governance. She’s also relentlessly positive and enjoys a good chat.

Recent submissions
- Submission to Christchurch City Council on speed limits surrounding One New Zealand Stadium at Te Kaha
- Submission on the Public Works Amendment (Critical Infrastructure) Bill 2025
- Submission on Waipā District Council Local Water Done Well
- Submission on Waipā District Council Long Term Plan 2025-34
- Submission on Hamilton City Council’s Local Water Done Well
- Submission to Tauranga City Council on Local Water Done Well