The RMA reforms represent one of the most significant overhauls of New Zealand’s environmental and planning laws in decades. The current Resource Management Act 1991 has been widely viewed as overly complex, slow, and inefficient at both protecting the environment and enabling development. After years of reviews and criticism that cumulative environmental effects weren’t managed well and planning processes hindered housing and infrastructure delivery, the Government embarked on a phased reform programme aimed at replacing the RMA with a simpler, clearer system.
Core Timeline
The reform process has unfolded in multiple phases:
Phase One involved repealing previous Acts and beginning structural change to the planning framework. This phase was substantially completed by late 2023.
Phase Two saw targeted changes to the RMA through statutory amendments in 2024 and 2025, including adjustments to freshwater regulation and consenting requirements. Consultation on updated national direction instruments also took place through 2025.
Phase Three commenced with the introduction of a Planning Bill and a Natural Environment Bill in December 2025. These proposed Acts are intended to fully replace the RMA and are expected to be passed into law in 2026, with transition to the new system, continuing through 2028–2029 as regional combined plans are developed and implemented.
This is what you need to know more about regarding the Resource Management Act (RMA) reforms, which you can click here for download.