Southland will judge new planning system by its results

Environment Southland Chair Jeremy McPhail says the success of the country’s new planning system will be determined by how it works on the ground, not by what is written on paper.

The Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill have passed their third readings in Parliament, clearing the way for the Resource Management Act to be replaced after more than 30 years.

“This is a significant milestone, but the proof will be in the pudding,” Chair McPhail said.

“A simpler, faster and more certain planning system sounds good. Now it has to deliver for our communities, support sustainable growth and infrastructure, and protect the environment.”

Chair McPhail said national consistency had a place, but the new system must be flexible enough to recognise genuine regional differences.

“One size does not fit all. El Niño is a simple example: it can bring more rain to Murihiku Southland while other parts of the country face dry conditions. National direction must recognise those differences and allow decisions based on Southland’s conditions, risks and priorities. We will advocate strongly to ensure our region’s voice is heard.”

Southland’s economy, communities and environment are closely connected. The health of the region’s land, water and coast supports primary production, businesses, communities and the wider wellbeing of the region.

Chair McPhail said Southland’s strong relationships and regional knowledge would help ensure the new system worked in practice.

“We have a strong track record of working together across councils, mana whenua, industry and communities. We will draw on those relationships, along with local science and knowledge, to make practical decisions that are right for our region.”

While the reforms are significant, changes will not happen overnight. Existing plans, consents and councils’ day-to-day work will continue during the transition.

“Our immediate focus is understanding the detail, preparing well and keeping services running. We will be clear with Southlanders about what is changing, when it is changing and what it means for them.”

The new planning system is also being introduced alongside local government reform. Chair McPhail said the two processes could not be considered in isolation.

“Whatever the future structure of local government looks like, Southland must retain the specialist capability, regional knowledge, environmental information and relationships needed to manage natural systems across whole catchments.

“Changing the structure does not change the work that needs to be done.”

Environment Southland will now scrutinise the legislation, work with its regional partners and engage in the development of national direction and the transition to the new system.

“We will approach this constructively, but we will also be direct when something does not work for Southland. Our focus is straightforward: protect what matters, enable the region to move forward and make sure the new system delivers for Southlanders.”