RMA Reform: What It Means for the Bay of Plenty
RMA Reform: What It Means for the Bay of Plenty
Big changes are coming to New Zealand’s planning system. After more than three decades, the Resource Management Act (RMA) is being replaced by two new laws:
The Planning Bill – focused on enabling development and infrastructure
The Natural and Built Environment Bill – focused on protecting the environment
This is being called a once-in-a-generation reform, and it’s set to reshape how we plan, develop, and protect our environment.
So, What’s Changing?
The new framework aims to simplify and speed up planning processes. Here’s what you can expect:
Fewer Consents: Many low-impact activities – think decks, garages – won’t need resource consent anymore.
Regional Plans: Over 100 existing plans will be consolidated into 17 regional plans, guided by 30-year spatial strategies.
National Direction: A stronger National Planning Framework will standardise zoning and environmental limits across the country.
Compensation for Restrictions: Councils will need to compensate landowners when planning rules significantly restrict land use.
Faster Dispute Resolution: A new Planning Tribunal will resolve disputes quickly and at lower cost.
Less Public Input: Only parties directly affected will have a say on certain developments.
In short, the system is moving from an effects-based approach (avoiding harm) to an outcomes-based approach (delivering positive results).
What Does This Mean for the Bay of Plenty?
Here’s how these changes could play out locally:
Urban Growth: Tauranga and Western Bay councils have raised concerns about losing local voice under regional planning committees. Advocacy will be key to ensure our fast-growing areas get the infrastructure they need.
Primary Sector: Our rural landowners will welcome fewer consents for routine activities – less paperwork, fewer delays.
Natural Resources: Our unique geothermal assets, natural resources, and cultural sites will need careful management under the new framework to balance development with protection and Māori partnerships.
Housing & Infrastructure: Standardised zoning and faster approvals could unlock land for housing and improve transport corridors – critical as our region grows rapidly.
Other Key Changes You Should Know
Transition Period: The old RMA framework won’t disappear overnight. Transitional consenting rules will apply until at least 2027, with full implementation expected by 2029.
Activity Classes: Non-complying and controlled activity categories are gone, creating a more permissive system.
Public Participation: Only those “materially affected” can participate in certain consent processes, and public notification thresholds are higher.
Māori Engagement: A new Treaty clause strengthens obligations to consult iwi authorities and respect iwi planning documents.
National Direction Rollout: Expect two phases of national standards by 2026 and 2027 to guide regional plans.
Our Take at Stratum Consultants
We see these reforms as an opportunity to deliver smarter, more efficient planning solutions for our clients. The promise of speed and simplicity is exciting – but the details matter. How regional committees operate and how our local priorities are reflected will make all the difference.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on developments and advocating for practical outcomes that support sustainable growth in the Bay of Plenty.
Touch base with us to discuss your upcoming projects.