Water cooler chat: what you need to know about proposed RMA reform On 23 August 2023, the previous attempt to repeal and replace the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) became law. It lasted a mere 122 days before it was repealed by the National-led Coalition Government on 23 December 2023, just in time for Christmas. Read more
A rubbish decision? Supreme Court opens door for waste “effects” to be considered under RMA In a three-two split, the Supreme Court’s most recent decision under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) has confirmed that the disposal of plastic bottles can be a relevant “effect” on the environment in resource management decision-making. Read more
Fast paced reform: RMA Amendment Bill to put the brakes on planning processes The Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill has progressed at pace and passed its third reading on 14 August 2025. The Amendment Bill is part of a series of legislative amendments (along with the Resource Management (Freshwater and Other Matters) Amendment Act), intended to progress certain Government priorities in the resource management space before the complete replacement of the RMA in 2026. Read more
New Zealand’s resource management reform: a clearer, more effective framework The report of the Expert Advisory Group (EAG), detailing a blueprint to replace the RMA, was released today. The task set for the EAG was to develop a framework for two pieces of legislation that would better enable development and improve the management of the natural environment. Read more
Court of Appeal decision in Wairoa confirms judicial restraint when reviewing rating decisions On 14 March 2024, Local Government New Zealand issued a media release projecting an average rise in rates of 15per cent according to draft long-term plans across 48 councils. Read more
The road to reform: Natural and Built Environment Act and Spatial Planning Act given Royal Assent. What does this mean now? Natural and Built Environment Act and Spatial Planning Act Granted Royal Assent. What's Next Read more
The road to reform: Environment Select Committee releases its reports on the Natural and Built Environment Bill and Spatial Planning Bill On June 27, the Environment Committee reported on the NBE Bill and Spatial Planning Bill, aiming to reform NZ's environmental law. Here are five key takeaways. Read more
Freshwater Farm Plans: what you need to know A key part of the Government's Essential Freshwater 2020 package was the proposal to improve farm practices by requiring all farmers have a farm plan with a freshwater module (known as Freshwater Farm Plans or FW-FPs). The idea was that FW-FPs would help farmers understand the unique environmental issues on their properties and respond accordingly. Read more
The Severe Weather Emergency Act – amendments with unexpected consequences Discover rural landowner changes, permitted activities, and legislative impacts. Read more
