LGNZ responds to changes to Planning and Natural Environment Bills

LGNZ remains concerned about key elements of the Planning and Natural Environment Bills but welcomes some of the proposed changes.  

The Environment Committee reported back this week on both current bills before the House, which will now proceed to second reading.  

LGNZ President Rehette Stoltz welcomes a number of improvements made to the bills. “The Government has made some very practical changes we’ve advocated for, including extending implementation timeframes, clarifying permitted activity registration requirements, and changes relating to how effects of external building layouts are considered. 

“These improvements make the system more practical to implement and reduces administrative burden. 

“However, we continue to have serious concerns that the regulatory relief regime remains unchanged. 

“This could have a chilling effect on council decision making, and it’s yet another unknown and unfunded cost on ratepayers.”

Stoltz said the decision to weaken tools that support councils and iwi Māori collaboration, including provisions relating to Mana Whakahono ā Rohe agreements and joint management agreements are also concerning.

“Councils have consistently viewed these mechanisms as practical tools that provide certainty and support long-term relationships.

“These agreements outline how councils and iwi authorities will work together; there are no new powers or transfers of powers enabled through them. 

“They set out how existing mechanisms for participation and engagement will be best utilised and help stop what can often be ad hoc and unclear practices being the default.”

 Stoltz also questioned the potential durability of the reformed system both bills were intended to create. 

“The proposed expansion of ministerial powers fundamentally undermines the certainty and durability that the reforms are intended to deliver.  

“Frequent ministerial intervention in planning outcomes risks perpetuating one of the key weaknesses of the current RMA system, which is a lack of long-term stability and predictability.  

“Combined with greater centralisation of decision-making, this may reduce the ability of local communities and councils to shape outcomes for the places where they live.” 

Ultimately councils needed confidence that the new system would be durable, affordable and workable, said Stoltz.  

“Long-term certainty is essential if the reforms are to succeed.” 

“We look forward to continuing to work constructively with the Government and all parties to make sure the final legislation delivers an effective planning system for New Zealand to prosper.”