Wellington — May 29, 2026 — The Government has announced a $294 million investment over four years to roll out a new planning and environmental management system, replacing the Resource Management Act (RMA). The reforms aim to deliver faster, more consistent planning decisions, reduce costs, and strengthen resilience to natural hazards.
RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop highlighted that the current system is slow and fragmented, costing New Zealanders $1.29 billion annually in consenting processes. The new framework emphasizes property rights, supported by clear and accessible information. A major portion of the funding will establish digital foundations, including national data standards, shared services, and a central platform for planning, consenting, and monitoring.
Climate Change Minister Simon Watts emphasized the importance of resilience, noting that the reforms will provide communities with better data to manage risks from floods, earthquakes, and severe weather. A New Zealand Flood Map, expected in 2027, will offer property‑level flood risk information to councils, insurers, and communities.
Parliamentary Under‑Secretary Simon Court described the investment as “mission critical” for restoring certainty and confidence in development. By digitizing and streamlining planning processes, independent analysis suggests the reforms could unlock $5.3 billion in economic growth over 30 years.
This funding marks a significant step toward modernizing New Zealand’s planning system, ensuring that communities, councils, and developers have the tools to make smarter, more resilient decisions for the future.
