The New Zealand Government has announced a significant overhaul of the Resource Management Act (RMA) 1991, a move aimed at modernising environmental and development regulations. This reform will replace the RMA with two new Acts, focusing separately on environmental management and urban development. These changes are designed to streamline processes, reduce costs, and address long-standing criticisms of the RMA.

Here, we explore the key aspects of the reform and what it means for property developers, environmental stakeholders, and iwi groups.

Background and Purpose of the Reform

The RMA has long been criticised for its complex, slow, and costly processes, often prioritising environmental protection at the expense of efficient development. Projects like housing developments and renewable energy installations have faced years of delays, harming both economic growth and environmental progress.

Infrastructure and RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop highlighted the urgency of change, citing the need for legislation that supports timely development without compromising environmental protection. The reform aims to separate environmental regulation from urban development, creating clear, streamlined, and cost-effective approval processes.

Key Principles of the Reform

The reform is guided by ten principles to balance environmental preservation with development needs.

1. Targeted Environmental Management:
   The new laws will focus on managing direct environmental impacts, reducing the broad and ambiguous scope of the RMA. National standards will simplify council plans, limiting the need for resource consents in many cases.
2. Enhanced Compliance and Monitoring:
   Upfront consenting requirements will be reduced. Instead, the focus will shift to monitoring and enforcement during and after development, lowering costs and accelerating project timelines.
3. Single Regional Plans:
   Instead of overlapping plans, each region will adopt a unified regulatory framework prepared jointly by regional and district councils. This approach will reduce duplication and delays.
4. Improved Dispute Resolution:
   A new Planning Tribunal or equivalent body will address disputes efficiently and affordably, providing accessible resolution options for developers, councils, and property owners.
5. Commitment to Treaty Obligations:
   The reforms uphold the Treaty of Waitangi, addressing iwi concerns and enabling better use of Māori land while maintaining environmental safeguards.

Implications for Stakeholders

• Property Developers: The changes are expected to fast-track approvals, reduce compliance costs, and remove unnecessary hurdles for housing and infrastructure projects.
• Environmental Stakeholders: National standards and clear environmental limits will ensure sustainable practices, preventing development from overshadowing ecological concerns.
• Iwi Groups: The reforms offer iwi greater opportunities to develop and utilise Māori land while respecting Treaty rights, addressing long-standing barriers under the RMA.

Conclusion: What’s Next?

The reform is still in development, with an expert panel working on the final framework. Public consultation and an amendment bill are expected by mid-2025, with changes likely to align with national strategies for infrastructure, housing, and environmental management.

For clients in property development, land use, or environmental advocacy, staying informed is crucial as these changes unfold. At Core Legal Wellington, we can help you understand how the reforms may impact your projects or interests. Contact us for expert advice tailored to your needs.