Insight / Local Government Resource management and local government reform: More than two new Bills – other legislative change to watch in 2026 This year is set to be one to remember in terms of resource management reform, with the Planning and Natural Environment Bills (proposed to replace the Resource Management Act 1991) expected to be passed into law in the middle of the year. Read more
Insight / Local Government Water service suppliers – are you ready for Information Disclosure on 30 June 2026? The Commerce Commission has issued its final Water Services Information Disclosure Determination 2026, effective 27 February 2026. Read more
Insight / Local Government High Court clarifies councils’ stormwater powers and private drain duties The High Court has issued a helpful decision in Atkinson v Waipā District Council for councils responding to claims of council liability for drains on private property. Read more
Insight / Local Government Local Government reorganised: A brief overview of the CTB model Local government in New Zealand has come a long way since the post-war era, when there were more than 700 local authorities across Aotearoa. That collection of councils included 260 country and borough councils, as well as special purpose road boards, river boards and harbour boards (as well as more than 100 rabbit control boards). Read more
Insight / Local Government Restructuring within Local Authorities poses very specific challenges The current economic downturn is seeing many an organisation consider the merits of a restructure. Whether it's in the context of the public or private sector, obligations under employment law don't change, and potential legal liability and reputational risks to the employer always exist if the process is not managed correctly. Within the context of local authorities, however, there are some additional and very specific legislative requirements which need to be carefully and appropriately navigated. Read more
Insight / Local Government A return to normality – weathertightness defects separable from other defects in Council leaky building insurance claim A landmark legal case involving Napier City Council and RiskPool clarified liability for defects in a construction project. Find out how the courts ruled and the implications for councils and insurance claims Read more
