Cabinet agrees to invite all regions to submit proposals for economic growth.
Cabinet has agreed to extend the opportunity for all regions in New Zealand to apply for Regional Deals, aimed at boosting economic growth and delivering long-term infrastructure. The deals will enable collaboration between central and local government to unlock funding and financing tools.
The initiative is part of the Government's plan to address the country's massive infrastructure deficit, with Local Government Minister Simeon Brown and Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop saying that regional deals will be focused on supporting economic growth, improving housing supply, and establishing long-term commitments.
Regions will prepare light-touch proposals in partnership with central government, with invitations to submit a proposal sent out this month. The Government will then prioritise regions based on their potential to deliver on the economic growth agenda. The first deal is expected to be concluded by December 2025, with three deals in place by October 2026.
Regional Deals are a key priority for the Government and were committed under the coalition agreement with ACT. They aim to establish long-term collaboration between central and local government, delivering joint visions for regions that focus on economic growth and productivity.