New RMA Laws Aim to Simplify Planning in NZ

Federated Farmers has welcomed the passage of new legislation replacing the Resource Management Act (RMA), saying it will cut red tape and unlock investment in New Zealand's export-led economy.

The Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill passed their third reading in Parliament yesterday, marking a major milestone for farmers and the country as a whole.

Federated Farmers RMA reform spokesperson Mark Hooper described the legislation as 'a clean slate' that will allow New Zealand to build a planning system that is simpler, more predictable, and focused on outcomes rather than red tape.

Hooper said the current system had made it increasingly difficult and expensive for productive New Zealanders to grow the economy, with farmers spending too much time and money navigating a complex and uncertain system.