Regional government looking forward to unlocking New Zealand’s potential through resource management reform

In a milestone for New Zealand’s resource management reform, the coalition Government has today introduced the two Bills it intends to replace the Resource Management Act 1991.

The Regional Government Partnership of 16 regional and unitary councils (Te Uru Kahika) commended the Government on its work to date and highlighted the role of local government in the reform journey ahead.

Speaking on behalf of Te Uru Kahika, Chair of Canterbury Regional Council Dr Deon Swiggs said, “Now that we’ve seen the Government’s proposed changes to the resource management system and the central role of strategic regional planning and delivery going forward, it’s clear that implementation relies on the stability and expertise of regional and unitary councils.

“Broadly there’s a lot to like in the proposed reforms. They present a significant opportunity to deliver better economic outcomes while looking after the things that matter to our communities.

“Regional government provides the expertise and delivery capability needed for locally responsive, regionally scaled solutions.

“The Government’s resource management changes must be backed by sound economic analysis and well-designed, efficient structures for implementation that reflect the realities faced by our regions. We’ll be engaging fully as these Bills go through the select committee process before becoming law,” said Chair Swiggs.

Regional and unitary councils have responsibilities for resource management functions alongside their work providing public transport, flood resilience, emergency management, and biosecurity.

“New Zealand’s communities and natural resources face growing threats from extreme weather events, invasive pests and disease, pollution, and water quality and availability. Regional government plays a vital role in addressing these challenges, and we look forward to making more progress with our partners under the RMA replacement legislation,” said Chair Swiggs.

Tasman District Council Mayor Tim King agreed on the opportunity in front of the country.

"These reforms offer a chance to tackle long-standing challenges. The status quo isn't an option so I know that all councils will be looking hard at the Bills now in front of us to see how we can best support the Government’s ambitions.

“Resource management goes beyond just consenting, it’s how we manage all natural resources to allow us to live the way we aspire to in New Zealand. It’s about getting the right balance between growing productivity, where and how we build, and our unique natural environment.

“To do this we need good legislation alongside community-centred implementation.

“Given the importance of regional scale delivery for resource management, we need strong, stable local government to deliver the reforms successfully," said Mayor King, “Let's get local government changes and sequencing right."

Initial analysis of the Bills highlights ambitious timeframes for spatial planning and new regulatory plans, with spatial plans required within 21 months of enactment. While targeted measures such as consent expiry extensions will help alleviate some complexity during the transition, meeting these tight deadlines demands careful attention to how local government sequences its collective work to ensure the new Acts are ready for implementation from 2027. 

Te Uru Kahika also highlights the constitutional implications for Te Tiriti o Waitangi within the proposed system.

“The new framework offers a mixed picture for Māori participation: it is encouraging to see iwi engagement in shaping spatial plans, national rules, and regional plans, but there are risks with removing the broad obligation to consider Treaty principles.

“We must uphold Treaty settlements and have genuine opportunities for iwi and hapū to shape the strategic direction of the new resource management system,” said Chair Swiggs.

Regional government remains committed to outcomes and ensuring that the voices of our communities are part of advancing reforms that deliver healthy environments, resilient communities, and strong local economies.

Resource Management (Duration of Consents) Amendment Bill

Councils will continue to serve their communities under current legislation during the transition to a new resource management system, and this will include giving effect to the Resource Management (Duration of Consents) Amendment Bill being introduced to Parliament today.

The Government intends to pass this Bill into law this week, meaning existing consent expiry dates will be extended to two years after the end of the transition period for the new system.

New consent applications can still be made during the transition period and there will still be fast-track consents to deliver, requiring skilled consents staff to process.

Looking ahead, streamlined consents will be a feature of the new resource management system so there’s an ongoing need for staff with environmental management experience.

“The proposed changes impact more than just consent staff, as consenting touches many areas of regional and unitary council work. Time is needed to work through the details of the Bill and its implications alongside other government announcements,” said Chair Swiggs

Regional and unitary councils are committed to supporting staff through this period of change, recognising their vital role in driving the economy and protecting the environment.

ENDS

Media contact: Nicole Taber, Te Uru Kahika Communications Lead, 022 100 2422 

About Te Uru Kahika

Te Uru Kahika – Regional and Unitary Councils Aotearoa is the partnership of New Zealand's 16 regional and unitary councils. We work together to protect and enhance our environment, build resilient communities, and support a thriving economy.