Resource Management Act replacement announced

The story so far

The government was set to announce replacements for the Resource Management Act on 8 December 2025, with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop expected to reveal two new laws.^{9 Dec 2025} On 9 December the government unveiled draft legislation for a Planning Act and a Natural Environment Act, which it says will streamline development.^{9 Dec 2025} The reforms may require councils to compensate landowners for significant restrictions, and the new system is intended to be active by 2029.^{9 Dec 2025} The government says the overhaul aims to reduce building costs and speed up infrastructure delivery, and some see it as a way to boost growth.^{10 Dec 2025} Environmental groups and Southern mayors have raised concerns about possible impacts on landscapes and native species.^{10 Dec 2025}

Latest

The Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill were revealed on 9 December, and critics, including environmental groups and Southern mayors, have voiced concerns.^{9, 10 Dec 2025}

What's next

The bills are scheduled to be sent to a select committee next week.^{9 Dec 2025} The new system is intended to become active by 2029.^{9 Dec 2025}

Key moments

1. 9 Dec 2025Government set to reveal two laws to replace the Resource Management Act.
2. 9 Dec 2025Draft Planning Act and Natural Environment Act unveiled to replace the RMA.
3. 9 Dec 2025Councils may have to compensate landowners for significant restrictions.
4. 9 Dec 2025Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill to go to select committee next week.
5. 10 Dec 2025Environmental groups and Southern mayors raise concerns about landscapes and native species.

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