The two polytechnics that serve the Wellington region hope to become the first tertiary institutions in New Zealand to share a single governing body.
Wellington Institute of Technology and Whitireia Community Polytechnic already have the same council chair and deputy chair.
On Monday, they announced a plan to share a council, academic board and services such as IT and payroll.
The polytechnics say the change would improve collaboration but allow them to stay flexible.
They will consult on the proposal and decide in August whether to seek Government approval.