The NZ government has released New directions for resource management in New Zealand. Key drivers of the review were: The way we use land has proved to be unsustainable Urban growth is poorly managed Land use must change to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. Māori are left out of critical decision-making.… Continue reading Throwing the Champagne Out With the Cork
Category: Laws and Regulations
The end of existing use rights?
The Plan Change 1 decision in Whakatane has revoked existing use rights for property owners in Matata. The plan changes are the culmination of work following a debris flow in 2005. The plan change was undertaken alongside a land acquisition process to enable managed retreat. Existing use rights are a foundation of the planning framework.… Continue reading The end of existing use rights?
Testing Online Democracy
The COVID-19 Response (Urgent Management Measures) Legislation Act 2020 has made changes to the way Council meetings can be conducted while the Epidemic Preparedness (COVID-19) Notice 2020 is in force. It’s likely to be in force until at least 25 June (unless revoked prior). It could be extended. The changes amend the Local Government Official… Continue reading Testing Online Democracy
The rapid rise of Home Business
Under Alert Levels 3 and 4 many people will be working from home. But there are rules for this! Most District and City Plans will have requirements to manage the effects generated by working from home activities. This is just one area that the full consequences of the Epidemic Notice are yet to be ‘ironed… Continue reading The rapid rise of Home Business
Can tourism and hospitality ‘pivot’ under the RMA
Tough times are ahead for tourism and hospitality but the UNWTO remains optimistic. The government have also created a Go with Tourism website to support the industry. But the fact remains, many tourism and hospitality businesses will need to change. Many will operate under resource consents or have existing use rights. Closing for an extended… Continue reading Can tourism and hospitality ‘pivot’ under the RMA
Excluding People Through Digital Engagement
The recently released Citizen’s Advice Bureau Report Face to Face With Digital Exclusion has some incredible findings. As we move towards ‘ePlanning’ and RegTech frameworks we must remain mindful of those being left behind. This report highlights some obvious yet often overlooked barriers: Lack of access to computers and internet. Not everyone spends most of… Continue reading Excluding People Through Digital Engagement