The Government says it is moving to cut delays for major infrastructure projects while maintaining strong environmental protections, as reforms to the resource management system continue to take shape.
The changes are aimed at reducing barriers that have slowed the delivery of essential infrastructure, including transport networks, water services, renewable energy projects and public facilities.
Environment Minister Penny Simmonds says the current planning framework has become overly complex, costly and time-consuming, creating uncertainty for communities, councils and investors seeking to deliver projects that support economic growth and regional development.
Under the proposed reforms, consenting processes will be streamlined to make it easier for nationally and regionally significant projects to progress. The Government says the goal is to provide greater certainty while ensuring environmental standards remain in place.
Officials say the new approach will focus on managing environmental effects rather than creating unnecessary procedural hurdles, allowing decision-makers to balance development needs with the protection of natural resources and ecosystems.
The reforms are expected to play a key role in addressing New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit, with growing demand for housing, transport links, energy generation and climate-resilient public assets.
Supporters argue the changes will help unlock investment, create jobs and improve productivity, particularly in regional communities where infrastructure projects often face lengthy approval processes.
Environmental safeguards will remain part of the system, with protections for waterways, biodiversity and culturally significant areas continuing to be considered during planning and consenting decisions.
The Government says striking the right balance between economic development and environmental stewardship is essential to ensuring future generations inherit both a strong economy and a healthy natural environment.
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