Our response to central government reforms

Central government is introducing major reforms that will reshape how we manage land, water, and the environment in Aotearoa New Zealand. Find out what these proposed changes and how we're responding to ensure the region’s priorities are heard and protected.

What’s changing

The Government is reforming the resource management system, with legislation to replace the Resource Management Act (1991) (RMA) to be introduced to Parliament later this year and public consultation to follow.   

Once passed into law, the new legislation will affect how we plan for and manage our natural environment, cities and towns, with impacts for local authorities, communities, resource users and ratepayers.

Alongside this, the Government released a detailed proposal to fundamentally reshape regional government across New Zealand, including replacing elected regional councillors with interim governing bodies.

The changes also address decision making processes under the new resource management system.

Other changes affecting local government

Other proposed changes to legislation and policy that guide how we deliver our work as a regional council include:

• Climate change adaptation and natural hazards
• Emergency management
• Infrastructure, funding, and transport
• Local Government system improvements
• Te Tiriti o Waitangi/te Ao Māori legislation.

How we’re responding to government reforms

When central government brings out new legislation or proposals, we work to advocate for Waitaha Canterbury and to adapt quickly to changes in central government policy and legislation. Read our previous submissions on past government proposals.

Our staff regularly scan for new legislative proposals and analyse new legislation that is introduced to understand how it will impact Waitaha Canterbury’s environment, its people, the economy and how we operate as a regional council.

Want to stay up to date? Explore our news section for the latest updates on government reforms, proposed legislation, and how we’re ensuring Canterbury’s voice is heard.