This newsletter provides a regular update on the new planning system for people either working or involved in resource management policy and implementation, from the Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT).

MCERT’s foundation Strategic Intentions document sets out the outcomes it seeks to influence, the nature of its role and responsibilities and its current areas of strategic focus over the period 2026/27 to 2030/31.

‍RMLA, which represents lawyers, planners, judges, scientists, engineers, economists, landscape architects and other professionals working across New Zealand's resource management system, made a detailed submission on the Bills during the select committee process earlier this year. At a high level, RMLA supports the Government's intention to reform the resource management system and recognises that the Bills introduce a number of positive concepts and processes, including greater standardisation across plans, regional spatial planning and the establishment of a Planning Tribunal.