In December, the Government released a significant suite of planning and infrastructure legislation and National Directions ahead of the next General Election.
Much of this reform aligns with long-standing Property Council policy positions, and in several key areas, member advocacy has directly shaped the final outcome.
We would like to sincerely thank Property Council’s Resource Management System Reform Taskforce for supporting our efforts for specific changes to the National Direction.
Here’s a clear snapshot of where we made progress, where change was partial, and where work continues.
National Policy Statement for Infrastructure
National Policy Statement - Natural Hazards
National Policy Statement - Highly Productive Land
National Direction Package 3: Freshwater
Author | Leonard Hong
An accomplished economist and public policy professional, Leonard brings a global perspective and analytical edge to Property Council New Zealand’s advocacy team.
With a background spanning macroeconomics, international political economy, and urban development policy, Leonard’s career has taken him from the New Zealand Parliament to leading think tanks and industry bodies across the Asia-Pacific. Before joining Property Council, he was a Policy Advisor with the Property Council of Australia in Perth, where he led research and advocacy on urban growth, infrastructure, industrial and capital market settings. His earlier experience includes roles with The New Zealand Initiative, where he co-authored nationally recognised economic reports, and as an advisor to Hon. Andrew Bayly MP, former Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.
Leonard holds a Master’s degree in International Political Economy from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, graduating with First Class Honours and dual degrees in Commerce and Arts from the University of Auckland. A recipient of both the Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia and the Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Latin America, Leonard is also a member of the Asia New Zealand Foundation’s Leadership Network and an Adjunct Associate with Principal Economics.
Passionate about evidence-based policy and the intersection of economics, cities, and governance, Leonard’s work supports Property Council’s mission to create thriving, well-designed communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.
