High hopes regional deals with the Government will fix funding shortfalls for councils

The Government has announced it's seeking proposals for partnerships with regions to deliver critical infrastructure - through 10-year strategic plans.

Up to five regions will be invited to put forward a bid - before the first one is finalised by next year.

Local Government New Zealand's Sam Broughton says the framework laid out by the central government acknowledges the current system is broken.

He says it's a hugely welcome admission from the Government, and he's keen to look out how tools can be used to fund communities other than rates.