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Planning Reform

The New Planning System

New Zealand’s planning system is changing. 

The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) is being replaced by the Planning Act 2026 and Natural Environment Act 2026.

The transition to the new system will take place in stages over the coming years, with the new system expected to be fully in place by 2030.

What are the two new Acts?

The Planning Act

Establishes a new framework for planning and regulating the use and development of land. Its framework includes national instruments, regional spatial plans, land-use plans and planning consents.

The Natural Environment Act

The Natural Environment Act establishes the framework for managing natural resources and the natural environment. Its framework includes environmental limits, national instruments, natural environment plans and natural resource permits.

 

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