Central Otago deputy mayor Tracy Paterson has been re-elected as deputy chair of the Otago Central Lakes Regional Deal Negotiation Committee, as negotiations with the government continue.

The committee met in Alexandra on December 12 to review progress on the proposed Otago Central Lakes Regional Deal and to confirm next steps following a series of detailed discussions with Crown officials.

At the meeting, Otago Regional Council councillor Gretchen Robertson was also re-elected as chair, with Tracy continuing in the deputy chair role to help guide the next stage of negotiations.

In a joint statement released on Friday, the councils represented on the committee said the most recent discussion with Crown officials took place on December 4 and focused on transport priorities, along with funding and financing options. 

The councils said earlier sessions had examined council proposals around affordable housing, healthcare, electricity supply, and ways to lift regional productivity.

Committee chair Gretchen said the regional deal was focused on preparing the area for long-term growth.

“This deal is about future-proofing our region. We need solutions that keep pace with growth, protect our environment, and maintain quality of life for residents and visitors alike,” she said.

The Otago Central Lakes Regional Deal aims to deliver improved economic, environmental, and social outcomes across the subregion. 

Key priorities include investment in transport infrastructure to ease congestion and improve resilience, as well as exploring new funding tools to help manage the costs of growth and high visitor numbers, while reducing pressure on local ratepayers.

The committee reaffirmed its commitment to confidentiality during negotiations, saying this was necessary to protect the region’s negotiating position and achieve the best possible outcomes for local communities.

The Otago Central Lakes Regional Deal is a proposed growth and infrastructure partnership between Queenstown Lakes District Council, Central Otago District Council, Otago Regional Council, and the government. 

It is based on a 30-year vision supported by a 10-year strategy.

Councils expect to hear from the government on next steps early in 2026.