Complete the RMA overhaul launched in the government’s first term

After introducing fast-track planning legislation as an interim measure, the government has moved to replace the Resource Management Act entirely with two new pieces of legislation –  a Planning Bill and a Natural Environment Bill. Both bill are before Parliament and expected to pass this year, with Luxon describing their implementation as a top priority for his government.

“We are radically reforming New Zealand’s planning system. It is a major, major achievement and will be one of the biggest legacies of this government,” he recently told reporters. He said the bills would immediately mean around half of all resource consents were no longer required and the reforms would unshackle growth and development by simplifying and shortening the consent process, reducing red tape and bureaucratic hurdles.