Central government has a key role to play in supporting the digital transformation of Aotearoa New Zealand’s economy, without which, gains in productivity, efficiency and economic growth are being left on the table.

In late 2023, LGNZ commissioned Kalimena Advisory to produce a paper for local government leaders to provide insight into international experience around city and regional deals, and how this might be applied in the New Zealand context. The paper, and accompanying set of slides, sets out background on the key elements of city and regional deals, different options that have been used in the United Kingdom and Australia, and considerations and key takeaways that could be applied when designing a city and regional deals framework for New Zealand.

The paper referenced here, authored by David Waite, Andy Pike and Graeme Roy, draws on insights from Australia and the longer standing deals in the UK to identify key issues and dimensions that policymakers may usefully consider. Their stated aim is to further dialogue on the potentials and challenges of City Deals in the New Zealand setting.