Have your say: Update to 2024 emissions budgets advice
The Climate Change Commission is inviting evidence and insights to inform an update of its 2024 advice on emissions budgets.
Cabinet materials for the paper “Simplifying Local Government – Head start pathway”
The Government has proactively released Cabinet papers on simplifying local government (5 May 2026), which reveal that decisions regarding the national environmental regulator will be delayed until the next Parliamentary term.
Final Environment Court decision issued on Waikato Regional Council Plan Change 1
The Environment Court has directed Waikato Regional Council to make 20 specific changes to finalise a landmark plan to improve water quality in the Waikato and Waipā rivers.
PCE comment on Tukituki Water Storage Project Land Exchange Application
The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment provided comment to the Department of Conservation on a proposed land exchange related to the Tukituki Water Security Project in the Hawke’s Bay region made under the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 (FTAA).
System transformation - new planning system
MfE has published documents relating to the system transformation work programme that replaces the RMA.
New South Island Marine Reserves finally here
The Minister of Conservation has announced the creation of five marine reserves off the Otago and south-Canterbury coast, forming the Te Au Roa o Te Rakihouia marine protection network.
New investigations into heritage and housing rules
An investigation has been launched into whether council planning rules in Wellington and Hamilton are getting in the way of new homes and economic growth.
Incentivising councils to go for housing growth
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.
Funding to boost resilient planning system
The Government says New Zealanders will benefit from better information about natural hazard risks, and faster and more consistent planning decisions under major new investment for planning reforms.
Resource management reform phase 2 national direction
This package contains documents relating to the resource management reform phase 2 national direction including National Environmental Standards.
Seeking nominations - Pou Herenga
Help support the Climate Change Commission Board with knowledge in te Tiriti o Waitangi / the Treaty of Waitangi and te ao Māori.
Climate adaptation case study on Westport released
A new case study on climate adaptation in Westport shares concerns from the community about the need for clarity on who pays for adaptation work to support resilience in small communities.