RMLA’s Lauren Wallace and Kate Stubbing shared some initial thoughts on the Environment Select Committee recommendations and what these may mean in practice for transitional consenting. In short, the session was a useful reminder that, while a new planning system is on the horizon, RMA-based consenting isn't going anywhere just yet.

This edition comes at an important point in the transition to New Zealand’s new planning system. Work is underway to build a more effective, nationally consistent system that supports housing and infrastructure, while protecting what matters to New Zealanders – including our natural environment.

The Government has committed funding to back councils that support housing growth.

Budget 2026 allocates $400 million over four years through a tagged contingency for the new Incentives for Growth Fund.