WELLINGTON, April 10 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown signed a landmark Auckland city deal on Friday, marking the country's first city partnership agreement between central and local governments.
The deal establishes a long-term framework to boost the economic growth and livability of New Zealand's largest city through coordinated investments in housing, transport and infrastructure, according to a government statement.
"This is a new way of working that establishes shared accountability, recognizing the size and significance of Auckland," Brown was quoted as saying.
At a press conference, Luxon called Auckland "New Zealand's economic engine room," saying the agreement would create more jobs and prosperity nationwide.
The deal includes plans for a coordinated 30-year transport strategy covering the North West Rapid Transit, Botany-to-Airport link and City Rail Link works.
Other commitments include investing in the redevelopment and roofing of the Auckland Tennis Center to support international events, creating innovation precincts and advancing biodiversity restoration across the region. ■