RMA national direction reforms complete
The New Zealand Government has finalised major reforms to the Resource Management Act, introducing new national standards to streamline electricity and telecommunications infrastructure development and reduce consenting delays.
The Government has completed the largest overhaul of national direction under the Resource Management Act, introducing two new National Environmental Standards aimed at simplifying rules for electricity networks and telecommunications facilities. These standards replace outdated and inconsistent planning requirements with clearer, nationally consistent rules to accelerate infrastructure upgrades and reduce costs. The changes are designed to remove unnecessary barriers that have delayed investment in essential services while maintaining environmental protections.
The new National Environmental Standards for Electricity Network Activities expand existing rules to cover both transmission and distribution networks, which previously operated under varying local council requirements. The standards provide clearer guidelines for routine maintenance, upgrades, and new infrastructure, including protections against incompatible development and support for electric vehicle charging networks. This aims to reduce delays and costs for lines companies while improving network resilience and safety.
For telecommunications, the updated National Environmental Standards for Telecommunication Facilities address outdated rules that no longer align with modern technology needs. The reforms allow for larger antennas and cabinets, easier installation of new poles, and better support for 5G rollouts, emergency deployments, and rural connectivity improvements. These changes aim to remove unnecessary consenting hurdles for minor upgrades and facilitate faster deployment of critical infrastructure.
The reforms are part of a broader transition between the outgoing Resource Management Act and the Government’s new planning system, including the Planning Act and Natural Environment Act. While the new system is developed, the national direction instruments serve as a bridge to ensure consistent rules are in place. The Government is also consulting on illustrative National Policy Directions to set clear national priorities for housing, infrastructure, and environmental values under the upcoming framework.