Farmers and growers are set to spend less time navigating paperwork and more time focused on production under New Zealand’s new planning system, according to Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard.
The Government has announced it will replace the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) with two new pieces of legislation: A Planning Bill, which will enable development and regulate land use, and a Natural Environment Bill, which will manage environmental impacts and protect natural resources.
The ministers say the changes respond directly to long-standing concerns from the rural sector about the cost, complexity, and inefficiency of the current system.
“Across the country farmers and growers have stressed how the previous system failed them. It was burdensome, stifled productivity, and that’s why we are replacing it,” Todd says.
He says the new approach will have a significant impact on rural communities.
“Today’s announcement is a long time coming and will make the world of difference to rural New Zealand. A common-sense planning system means farmers and growers can more effectively meet their obligations while continuing to produce world-class food and fibre.”
What the Changes Mean for Farmers
Under the new planning system, farmers and growers can expect a range of changes aimed at reducing compliance costs and improving certainty.
Key changes include fewer regulatory hurdles, with unnecessary rules removed and fewer resource consents required. Processing times are expected to be faster, and property rights will be more clearly recognised.
Rules will also be simplified through standardised regional planning provisions, making it easier for farmers to understand what applies to their land. A risk-based approach will be adopted, meaning lower-risk activities and areas will face fewer requirements, while higher-risk activities will continue to be more closely managed. Activities with minimal impact on others or the environment will not require consent.
The system will also provide access to “relief” where planning controls or rules have a significant impact on land use.
Freshwater farm plans will play a central role, reducing the need for consents while supporting environmental outcomes. These plans will be farmer-led and flexible, helping farmers identify environmental risks and implement practical actions to manage them. In catchments under pressure, the plans will give councils greater confidence that environmental limits are being met.
Supporting Transition and Investment
Mr McClay says the Government is focused on ensuring a fair and workable transition as the new system is introduced.
“Our farmers and growers need a fair transition to give them certainty as the new system beds in. We will deliver this so they can continue to farm without having to meet excessive consultant and RMA costs. The Government backs them to meet their environment obligations while continuing to produce revenue the country desperately needs,” he says.
He adds that reducing regulatory uncertainty will help unlock further investment across the sector.
“We’re giving them the confidence to invest in higher value land use, state-of-the-art technology, improved management practices, and product supply chains that grow jobs in their communities.”
Addressing Frustration in the Rural Sector
Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard says the reform is grounded in extensive engagement with farmers across the country.
“I’ve spent months on farm visits across the country, talking to farmers in woolsheds, over gates, and around kitchen tables. The stories I have are ones of frustration and sometimes despair at the often crippling costs and uncertainty that the current system is creating,” Mr Hoggard says.
He says a clear and simple principle underpins the new system. “The new system is built on a simple principle: it’s your land, you have the right to use it.”
Andrew says the reforms will make it easier not only to farm, but also to undertake positive environmental projects.
“We’re stripping out unnecessary rules so farmers can get on with what they do best – farming. But it’s also about reducing the costs and barriers to also engage in good environmental practice as well. I have spoken to farmers and groups that almost gave up on wetland creation due to the costs and hassles involved.”
He says the changes will help ensure agriculture can continue to support both the economy and the environment.
“Farmers are already doing a huge amount for New Zealand’s economy and way of life. Our job is to make sure the rules are practical, efficient and fit for purpose so our agricultural sector can continue to lead the world and drive our economic recovery,” Mr Hoggard says.
What Happens Next
The two bills will be introduced to Parliament this afternoon, with the Government aiming to pass the legislation into law in 2026. New Zealanders will have the opportunity to provide feedback through the Select Committee process.
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