NZ’s resource management rules have been rewritten. What happens after the election?

A system still in transition

The government says the new system will make development easier, cut costs and delays, and improve environmental management. Environment groups, however, warn it may weaken protections and increase risks for communities.

Changes to freshwater rules

The approach gives farmers and councils more time to address pollution instead of requiring immediate changes that could be costly or difficult. Its success depends on voluntary action and nutrient modelling, which has significant limitations.

Fast-track approvals and ministers

The Fast-track Approvals Act was introduced to speed up consents. The government said it aimed to end “a culture of no,” but 92% to 96% of resource consents had been granted each year during the preceding decade.

The scheme has also drawn controversy for covering subdivisions and previously declined “zombie projects.” Separately, the new laws give ministers more power to override environmental limits when setting national direction. National rules could become more consistent, but limits may change when governments change. That could create uncertainty for businesses and communities while increasing environmental risks.

Costs, councils and the election

The government has removed some regional council powers to protect marine biodiversity and placed responsibility with the Ministry for Primary Industries. The move comes amid concerns about a long-running failure to prevent damage to ocean habitats, and could feature in post-election coalition negotiations.