The Government is moving ahead with a sweeping overhaul of the Resource Management system, replacing the Resource Management Act (RMA) with a new framework based on two Acts: the Natural Environment Act and the Planning Act.

This new architecture aims to simplify regulations, reduce the scope and volume of consents, and streamline planning processes. National direction is being restructured to include fewer, clearer instruments with national standards, environmental limits, and standardised zoning.

Councils like Tasman will be expected to begin developing integrated regional plans that combine spatial, natural environment, and land use chapters. Ahead of the legislation changes, the Government has launched statutory and non-statutory consultations on four regulatory packages—Infrastructure & Development, Primary Sector, Freshwater, and Housing—each with sector-specific implications.

These changes are designed to quickly unlock economic development while maintaining core environmental protections.

Immediate future:

For us, the immediate focus will be on engaging with the Government’s consultation process in mid-2025, preparing for the introduction of the Planning and Natural Environment Bills later this year, and beginning alignment of local planning with upcoming national direction.

The new national policy direction and standards are being developed throughout 2026, with legislation expected to pass mid-2026 and full implementation beginning in 2027. We will be involved in testing and shaping implementation tools and processes, with LG practitioners helping ensure that new systems are practical and fit-for-purpose.

Tasman must also prepare for liberalised freshwater and land-use rules, including relaxed wetland protections and new flexibility in applying environmental bottom lines—changes that will have significant operational, environmental, and community engagement implications.

Immediate priorities include engaging in Government consultations, preparing for legislative changes, and adapting to more flexible environmental and land-use standards. Full implementation is expected from 2027.