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Regional Deals Strategic Framework

The Regional Deals Strategic Framework provides details of how Regional Deals works. The framework draws on the experiences of other countries where city and regional deal models have opened significant opportunities for economic growth.

Kāwanatanga o Aotearoa New Zealand Government Regional Deals Strategic Framework cover image of rural landscape from the air

Regional Deals Strategic Framework (Beehive website, PDF, 3MB) 

Timeframes and sequencing

The first regional deal is expected to be signed by the end of 2025. 

The process

  • The Minister of Local Government invites councils to submit a regional deals proposal. 
  • In preparing proposals, councils are to work with other councils to determine their regional priorities.  
  • Deals are selected and prioritised according to criteria outlined in the Regional Deals Strategic Framework (above).
  • Local and central government work together to confirm the specific features, arrangements and terms of the regional deal, for the selected and prioritised regions.

See below section ‘Getting selected for Regional Deals’ for more information.

Milestones for making a deal

Regional Deals will follow a staged approach with the following phases:

  • Milestone 1: the Minister of Local Government sends an invitation to councils to submit a regional deals proposal, laying out the Government’s expectations for proposals.
  • Milestone 2: government considers the proposals.
  • Milestone 3: central and local government work together to agree and finalise a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
  • Milestone 4: central and local government and partners work through final stage negotiations to finalise a deal.

Getting selected for Regional Deals

Regions will be selected and prioritised in phases based on criteria outlined in the Regional Deals Strategic Framework (above). Government will focus on areas that show strong potential for growth and where partnerships and planning are already well-established.

When deciding, ministers will look at regions that:

  • Are in a growth area with clear plans to boost the economy, increase productivity, and improve infrastructure.
  • Have already set up strong foundations, like urban partnerships, regional plans, or other development strategies. These regions should also have funding and plans ready for key projects.
  • Are ready to deliver, meaning they have the people, skills, and resources to get projects moving. They should also have a history of working well with government, other councils, local businesses, and iwi/ Māori.

The role of private and iwi/Māori organisations

Regional Deals primarily involve partnerships between local councils and central government. There is significant opportunity for collaboration from the private sector and iwi/Māori organisations. Local government is responsible for identifying opportunities for involvement and engaging with private sector entities and Māori organisations.

All regional deals are required to honour pre-existing Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations.

Definition of ‘region’ for Regional Deals

Regions for Regional Deals can include regional, sub-regional, or other suitable areas, as long as they are clearly defined economic and geographic areas with functioning local authorities.

Keep an eye on this page for more information about Regional Deals as work progresses.