The proposed Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill will eventually replace the Resource Management Act (RMA), marking the most significant reform of New Zealand’s planning system in decades. The new framework is intended to simplify planning processes, reduce complexity, and provide greater consistency across the country.
The Key Message: It’s Business as Usual for Now
While the reforms are significant, most clients are unlikely to see major changes in the short term. Existing district plans, regional plans, and resource consent processes remain in place, and the development of the new planning framework is expected to take several years.
What Changes First?
Some transitional provisions are expected to come into effect shortly after the legislation is enacted. These changes are largely procedural and designed to improve the efficiency of the consenting process while the new system is being developed.
For clients, this could mean:
• Fewer planning matters needing detailed assessment as part of consent applications.
• Some activities being treated as permitted where they relate only to matters that are no longer regulated.
• Greater flexibility around certain consent and planning timeframes, including extensions to some expiry periods for regional consents.
• More streamlined decision-making processes for consent authorities on some topics.
The overall intent is to reduce unnecessary red tape and provide a smoother transition to the future planning system, rather than create disruption for ongoing projects.
What comes Next?
The development of the new planning framework will commence in 2027 with the development of national policy direction, regional spatial plans, followed by landuse plans and natural environment plans. These plans will only apply when all regions have plans.
How Cheal Is Staying Ahead
At Cheal, we’re actively monitoring the reforms through industry workshops, professional development, and ongoing review of legislative updates. Our focus is understanding not only what is changing, but what those changes mean in practice for our clients’ projects and investment decisions.
Whether you’re considering a subdivision, development, infrastructure project, or land-use change, we’re keeping pace with the reforms so you can have confidence in the advice you’re receiving.
Looking Ahead
For now, the planning rules you know remain the rules that apply. As the reforms progress, we’ll continue to keep clients informed and help navigate any opportunities or challenges that arise along the way.
Get in touch with a Cheal Planner today to discuss your project and navigate the changing planning landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the new planning reforms change the rules for my project now?
No. For now, existing district and regional plans and the current resource consent processes continue to apply. The transition to the new planning system is expected to take several years.
Will it become easier to get a resource consent?
Potentially. The reforms aim to simplify consenting, reduce unnecessary assessments and streamline decision-making. However, the impact will depend on your project, location and the rules that apply.
Should I delay my project until the new planning system is in place?
Generally, there is no need to wait solely because of the reforms. Current planning rules remain in effect, and Cheal can help you understand how the existing requirements and upcoming changes may affect your project.