The signing of a Regional Deal between central government and the councils of the Western Bay of Plenty is a significant step toward greater certainty, better alignment and increased confidence across one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing regions, says Priority One Chief Executive Dave Courtney.

“Our region has long had great potential, but not always the certainty needed to turn that into investment and delivery,” says Courtney. “This deal gives growth a stronger foundation.”

The Western Bay of Plenty is being shaped across multiple strands. Population growth, industry diversification, infrastructure delivery and urban regeneration are all advancing at pace, making the Regional Deal both timely and important.

“Opportunity attracts investment, but confidence and certainty help secure it,” says Courtney. “Those conditions are now starting to come together.”

Priority One believes the value of the Regional Deal lies in the framework it creates. It aligns central and local government, iwi partners and delivery agencies, while improving infrastructure sequencing and strengthening accountability.

“This will not only support delivery, it will also reduce risk, which builds confidence, improves value for money and helps attract private capital.”

Momentum is already visible across the region. Major infrastructure is underway, Tauranga’s city centre is being reshaped, and investment is flowing into housing, logistics, energy and value-add industries. The Regional Deal provides a stronger platform to coordinate and accelerate that work.

“This is about building on real momentum and ensuring growth is well managed and sustainable.”

“I believe the Regional Deal is an acknowledgement that our region is the growth engine of New Zealand,” says Todd Muller, Priority One Chair. “It’s a long-term commitment to plan the city’s growth and ensure the transport links, housing and social services are built at pace to support our growing population.”

As the Regional Deal takes shape, Priority One believes the focus must remain on delivery, fewer barriers and long-term prosperity for the region and its communities.

“If we get this right, the Western Bay of Plenty will be recognised as a premium, investable region,” says Courtney. “It will have the confidence to grow and the certainty to deliver for decades to come.”

Find out more about the Regional Deal here.

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