Tuesday, 06 October 2026
Landmark Regional Deal to shape future of Otago Central Lakes
Deal signed today by Otago Central Lakes councils and New Zealand Government
Otago Central Lakes councils and the New Zealand Government have signed a Regional Deal aimed at ensuring the region can keep pace with growth while remaining a great place to live, work and visit. The Deal creates a long-term partnership between local and central government to work together, alongside mana whenua and the private sector to better coordinate planning and investment over the next 30 years.
Queenstown Lakes District Mayor John Glover said the Deal represents a significant opportunity for the region and establishes a long-term partnership focused on making growth work better for local communities.
“As we grow, we need to provide strong foundations for our communities. We can only do that by planning and partnering to deliver the investment in transport networks, health, education, energy supply and other social infrastructure, all of which are fundamental to successful development. None of us can do this in isolation.”
Central Otago District Mayor Tamah Alley said the strength of the Deal lay in its long-term focus.
“The true success of this Regional Deal will not be measured by the signing, but by what endures decades from now. Built on trust, collaboration, and a commitment to our people and our place, this partnership is designed to outlast election cycles and create lasting opportunities for future generations.”
Otago Regional Council Chair Hilary Calvert said the Deal would help create a stronger future for both people and place.
“Otago’s lakes, rivers, mountains and productive landscapes are central to our region’s success. This partnership recognises that a strong economy and a healthy environment go hand in hand. By working together, we can support growth, strengthen our communities and protect the natural assets that make Otago such a special place to live, work and visit.”
The Deal is built around eight interconnected priority areas that will guide investment, decision-making and delivery across the region. Combined, these priorities enable the housing, infrastructure, services, investment and partnerships required to support thriving communities across Otago Central Lakes.
Six-monthly meetings will be held between the participating Ministers the Otago Central Lakes Mayors and Chair of the Otago Regional Council. The Otago Central Lakes Oversight Board, Steering Group, and Working Committees will be established to support the Deal as required.
Within six months of signing, the parties will develop an Implementation Plan that translates the commitments in the Deal into a programme of agreed actions for approval by the responsible Ministers, Mayors and Chair.
ENDS|KUA MUTU.
Media contact: oclregionaldeal@qldc.govt.nz or call 03 441 1802.
FURTHER INFORMATION | Kā pāroko tāpiri
• Otago Central Lakes Deal brochure
The eight key priority areas
1. Funding and financing mechanisms to enable growth
2. Affordable, quality housing
3. Reliable transport
4. Provision of health services
5. Energy resilience and innovation
6. Attracting investment and talent
7. Enabling key sectors
8. Partnership for growth