Property Council New Zealand has welcomed the Government’s announcement of an accelerated resource management reform programme, describing the direction of travel as “very positive” for development, investment, and economic productivity.
Chief Executive Leonie Freeman says the introduction of two new Bills before the end of 2025 represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to simplify the planning system and support New Zealand’s growth.
“Going from more than 100 plans down to just 17 is hugely significant,” says Freeman. “A clearer, more consistent planning framework means many land uses will no longer require consents, saving time, reducing cost, and giving the development and investment community much-needed certainty.”
Freeman says the Property Council particularly welcomes:
- A much higher threshold for what is considered ‘regulated’, including reduced consideration of visual amenity, private views and subjective character assessments.
- National standards on zones and common activities, which will improve consistency and reduce red tape across the country.
- A new Planning Tribunal to resolve simple disputes quickly and cost-effectively.
- Greater emphasis on property rights, which she says “will help reduce unnecessary litigation and delays in development approvals.”
“These changes reflect a strong commitment to creating a planning system that is consistent, predictable and focused on enabling development,” Freeman says. “The new system has the potential to unlock significant development capacity and drive better outcomes for both the industry and our communities.”
However, Freeman says ongoing checks will be required to ensure the system delivers as intended.
“We do have some reservations about the stability of national policy direction over time. Future Ministerial changes could have major impacts on planning approvals, so durability and cross-party alignment will be important.”
“Ultimately, it will be the detail and how it is implemented that matters. We look forward to working constructively with the Government as the Bills progress and ensuring the system is workable, balanced, and fit for purpose.”
ENDS