After a long wait, the seismic reforms our members have been eagerly watching are almost here. The Bill has been given urgency and is expected to pass in the next few sitting days of Parliament.
When passed, the Building (Earthquake-prone Buildings) Amendment Bill will amend the Building Act 2004 and, importantly, remove %NBS ratings from the earthquake-prone building system. The removal of %NBS ratings should provide greater certainty for the sector, moving away from a system that has been subject to ongoing changes and uncertainty around how buildings are assessed and communicated.
This is a significant milestone for the property sector and a key achievement in our seismic advocacy work. A big thank you to everyone in our Seismic Strengthening Taskforce whose expertise and input has helped us advocate strongly for this change over the years.
Author | Sandamali Ambepitiya
Sandamali arrived at Property Council with a Bachelor of Arts and Law, and experience as an advisor with the Employers & Manufacturers Association.
Conscientious and detailed, Sandamali leads our advocacy in the South Island and Wellington regions. She is also leading our work on the reform of the resource management and building systems and sustainability / seismic strengthening.
An excellent listener, Sandamali is in her element when facilitating stakeholders and members to develop our advocacy positions.
In brief: Seismic reform bill set to pass within days
Government confirms new development levies system, delivering on key Property Council asks
The Rise of Rooftop Hospitality
Property Council calls for greater transparency in electricity connection pricing
On the Move | September 2026
