The Government’s second RMA Amendment Bill has passed into law, bringing sweeping changes aimed at speeding up development, creating jobs, and supporting housing growth.

RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop says the Resource Management Act has “held New Zealand back for decades” and the new law will make it quicker and simpler to get projects off the ground in housing, renewable energy, infrastructure, and the primary sector.

Highlights of the changes include:

• Faster consenting for renewable energy and major infrastructure.
• Upzoning around Auckland City Rail Link stations to unlock housing potential.
• Easier removal of certain heritage protections.
• Reduced freshwater farm plan requirements for smaller farms.
• Stronger, faster action on natural hazard risks.

The Bill also gives the Minister powers to change or remove parts of council RMA plans that are proven to slow economic growth or job creation.

For the Hibiscus Coast, this could mean greater certainty for infrastructure upgrades, and more local job opportunities in construction and related trades.

The law will take effect the day after it receives royal assent, expected in the coming days, and will remain in place until a full RMA replacement is rolled out in 2027.

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