Hon David Parker

Minister for the Environment

13 November 2019 PĀNUI PĀPĀHO

MEDIA STATEMENT

The panel undertaking a comprehensive review of the Resource Management Act has identified the main issues to be addressed and options for reform and is calling for feedback to inform its final report.

In July the Government announced the comprehensive review of the resource management system, including the RMA - the first such review in 30 years.

The expert Resource Management Review Panel, chaired by retired Appeal Court Judge Tony Randerson, is tasked with producing reform proposals by mid-2020, including drafting of key legislative provisions.

Environment Minister David Parker welcomed progress on the overhaul of the RMA with the release of the panel’s Issues and Options paper.

“The RMA is responsible for managing our built and natural environment, and it has been underperforming,” David Parker said.

“It costs too much, it takes too long and it has not protected the environment. That is not an acceptable outcome in a country that values the protection of the environment while properly housing our people.

“The Issues and Options paper looks at what changes are needed to fix the system to ensure we have liveable urban and rural areas, that Māori have an effective role in the resource management system, that we improve our deteriorating freshwater quality and biodiversity, and that we respond to the effects of climate change.

“The proposals are indicative of the range of possibilities. For example, whether the RMA’s core purpose of sustainable management should change or if legislation dealing with urban development and environmental management should be separated,” David Parker said.

Interested parties can provide feedback via the Ministry for Environment’s website.

“This will help inform the panel’s final report on reform proposals, which is due to the Government by mid-2020. The Government will then consult on proposals for reform,” David Parker said.

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