In 2011, the Government established an independent technical advisory group ("TAG") to review the principles in sections 6 and 7 of the Resource Management Act 1991 ("RMA") as part of the Phase 2 RMA reforms. Sections 6 and 7 list “matters of national importance” and “other matters” that have a substantial role in shaping and directing how the RMA’s purpose is given effect though planning and decision-making.
This week, the Government released the TAG Report on RMA Principles. Some key recommendations are:
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Significant proposals to amend and realign sections 6 and 7.
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Shifting the focus of section 7 to deliver a more efficient decision-making process.
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Strengthening the treatment of natural hazards and infrastructure development under the RMA.
The TAG Report is not formal Government policy. However, the Ministry for the Environment has indicated that it will consider informal submissions on the Report. Please contact us if you would like to make an informal submission, require any assistance, or further information.
A copy of the full report is available
here.