Member Update from Mike Doesburg - Chair RMLA Auckland
Mike notes that April marks progress toward key planning reforms and the upcoming RMLA Conference. Renewable energy remains a priority, with multiple projects advancing through Fast-track despite consenting challenges. A new monthly RMLA newsletter and upcoming events will provide further insights.
Tēnā koutou RMLA colleagues,
Welcome to April 2026! With the passage of another month, we are all another step closer to the passage of the Planning and Natural Environment Bills, as well as this year’s Annual RMLA Conference “True North – Te pae tawhiti, whāia kia tata”. This year’s Conference Committee (a joint venture between the Northland and Auckland Regional Committees) are working hard to bring you another exciting and enlightening conference, hosted at the Bay of Islands / Te Pēwhairangi. Registrations open in May, so keep your eyes peeled for more details.
With current geopolitics and the uncertainty around fuel supply, one can’t help but reflect on New Zealand’s energy needs. As a country, we have a target that 50% of total energy consumption will come from renewable sources by 2035 and net zero carbon emissions by 2050. There is no doubt that we need renewable energy projects, but such projects can still be difficult to consent – the weighing of localised adverse effects vs. regional and national benefits presents an ongoing challenge. Perhaps this is why there are 30 renewable energy projects currently in the Fast-track consenting process, including one approved and six in progress (including with two draft decisions to grant consent for the Southland Wind Farm and Waitaha Hydro Scheme).
On the topic of Fast-track, our recent monthly newsletter advised of an upcoming article from Dr Doug Fairgray on economic assessment under that regime – a thorny issue given how economic considerations sit at the heart of decision-making in the Fast-track. This new monthly newsletter is designed to keep members further informed, connected and engaged by bringing together key upcoming activity, recent RMLA content and wider sector developments in one clear, regular touchpoint. The Auckland Branch Committee is also hosting a Fast-track session as part of its ongoing “Best Practice” series – if you’re based in Auckland, get your tickets now as it is close to selling out!
The balance of this week’s news brief provides a range of other interesting and useful content, including the latest from the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment on water quality, steps taken by MfE to develop a centralised New Zealand Flood Map, an update on Auckland’s PC120 and the release of the documents that support Cabinet’s decision to extend the term of resource consents in light of coming reform.
Wherever you are across the motu, we wish you a happy start to April and hope you can recharge the batteries over the Easter weekend for the busy year ahead.
Ngā mihi,
Mike
Chair, Auckland Branch Committee
