Events Calendar
RMLA offers a range of events throughout the year, including regional networking opportunities, national roadshows, the Salmon Lectures, and our annual conference. You will also find selected third-party events listed here where we consider they may be of interest to our members.
Many RMLA events may be eligible for Continuing Professional Development. Each individual is responsible for maintaining their own CPD plan and record. For legal practitioners, the New Zealand Law Society provides a useful CPD template on its website.
Anti-harassment and discrimination Policy: for anyone attending an RMLA hosted or co-hosted event, please be aware of our policy - read here.
RMA Reform in Focus with Lan Pham
An evening of insight and networking for emerging RMA practitioners.
The Young RMLA Wellington committee invites you to hear Lan Pham MP speak to our members. Ms Pham is an MP for the Green Party, the Environment and RMA Reform spokesperson, and sits on the Environment Committee.
Ms Pham has a background in freshwater ecology, is a Certified RMA Commissioner and served two terms on Environment Canterbury. With the select committee report on the RM3 Bills due imminently, and plenty of networking opportunities with other junior RMA practitioners, this event is not one to miss!
Important information:
Free event for both RMLA members and non-RMLA members.
Nibbles and drinks will be provided.
Ms Pham will be speaking from 6:15pm so we kindly ask that the audience is seated by that time.
Please note that the event is subject to Ms Pham's availability and may be changed if there are scheduling conflicts
Winter Solstice Catch-up Dunedin
The Otago/Southland Branch Committee invites members to a “(near enough to) Winter Solstice Catch up”.
General vibes are that everyone is a bit tapped out with the ongoing reform roller coaster. A tonic for that is connection and sharing a few war stories with your colleagues. To that end, please join us at Vigo, 18 Fryatt Steet from 5.15pm on 23 July 2026.
First drink and some delicious food provided. The Branch Committee would also be keen to hear what you would like us focussed on over the next little while and how we can support members through another round of change. We will entertain trading suggestions for a beverage.
Please RSVP below by 21 July for catering purposes.
Judicial Perspectives on Resource Management Litigation - Auckland
Join us for an engaging and interactive Q&A session at Simpson Grierson with:
The Hon Sir Mark Cooper KNZM, KC — Sir Mark was appointed to the High Court in 2004 and to the Court of Appeal in 2014, serving as President of the Court of Appeal from 2022 until his retirement from the judiciary in late 2024. Sir Mark is currently practising as an arbitrator at Bankside Chambers. Before joining the bench, Sir Mark was a leading resource management and local government lawyer.
The Hon Justice Melanie Harland — Justice Harland practised in civil litigation, including resource management and administrative law, before her appointment as a District Court Judge in 2007 and as a full-time Environment Court Judge in 2009. She was appointed to the High Court in 2021 and is based in Christchurch. Justice Harland also sits on the Divisional Court of Appeal.
This is the third session in an interactive professional development series run by RMLA. Previous sessions have traversed the "good" and the "bad" practices for council level hearings, and insights from those deeply involved in the Fast Track process.
This session turns to the Senior Courts. Sir Mark and Justice Harland will draw on their judicial experiences hearing resource management cases on judicial review and appeal, offering a view from the bench on what works (and what doesn’t) when matters reach the High Court and Court of Appeal. The session is directed not only at counsel - the "good," the "bad," and the judicial bugbears - but equally at expert witnesses, and what makes for good evidence if a matter ends up before the Senior Courts.
Whether you are a lawyer, planner, or expert witness, we encourage you to come geared with questions for this "conversational style" session.
To encourage open and frank discussion, the Chatham House Rule will apply. In addition to questions from the floor, attendees are encouraged to submit questions in advance for the panel's consideration by emailing us by Friday 17 July 2026.
Spaces for this in person only session are limited — register now to secure your place. Doors open at 5.30pm with the discussion running from 6pm-7pm.
Getting ready for Transitional Consenting under the proposed Planning Act
This webinar for RMLA and NZPI members will provide a deep dive into the transitional consenting provisions as reported back by the Environment Select Committee. The specific focus is on the changes that will impact practitioners first (possibly within one month of enactment) as part of the transition process as set out in Schedule 11 of the Planning Bill, ie the procedural principles and proposed new approach to s104, being the narrowed scope of effects consideration for resource consents.
MCERT officials will present an overview of the changes as they appear in the select committee report. This will be followed by a discussion with a senior planner and lawyer who will explore the practical implications of these changes. We will attempt to work through your queries in a Q&A session.
Intended audience: This webinar will be of interest to practitioners involved in the resource consent process either as an applicant, consultant planner, a consent processing planner lawyer, policy and CME experts or other technical specialists that connect into the resource consent system.
Presenters:
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Sara leads the implementation of the new planning and environmental management system. She has deep experience working closely with local government in the implementation of government reforms. Sara has worked in the areas of environmental law, policy, sustainability, relationship management, project management, government administration and implementation. Her background includes technical experience in resource management, and climate change. She practiced as a lawyer and worked as a sustainability consultant before joining the New Zealand government in 2010.
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Ruth is leading the implementation of Transitional Consenting in the new planning system. She has deep experience working in and with local government, including six exciting earthquake years with Christchurch City Council in international relations and economic development, before making the shift to central government in 2015. Since then she has worked in both policy and operational teams at the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment, Land Information New Zealand, and the Department of Internal Affairs, including the Future for Local Government Review. Her background includes a PhD in policy implementation.
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Amanda works across the spectrum of policy, consenting, and compliance disciplines of resource management and is a trusted advisor to both local government and central government agencies. With more than 17 years of experience working in local government in both New Zealand and the UK, Amanda has operated at the coalface of resource management.
Amanda is also an experienced trainer and supporter of planning practitioners, focusing on the development of practical skills and the importance of critical thinking. -
Lauren Wallace is President of the Resource Management Law Association and a Partner at Govett Quilliam. She leads the firm’s Environment and Planning Team and specialises in environmental, resource management and local government law, as well as civil litigation.
Lauren advises a diverse range of clients, including local authorities, iwi, energy and infrastructure providers, developers and community groups. She has extensive experience helping clients navigate complex consenting, planning and regulatory matters and has served as chair of a fast track expert consenting panel. Through her leadership of RMLA and involvement in law reform submissions, Lauren brings a strong understanding of both the legal framework and the practical issues facing practitioners as New Zealand transitions to a new resource management system. -
Kate Stubbing is a Partner at Cooney Lees Morgan in Tauranga and Secretary of the Resource Management Law Association. She specialises in resource management, planning, environmental and local government law, advising councils, developers and private clients on resource consent applications, major development and infrastructure projects, planning disputes and regulatory processes.
Kate has more than two decades of legal experience in New Zealand and the United Kingdom. She is actively involved in resource management law reform through her roles on RMLA’s National Committee and Bay of Plenty Branch Committee, including contributing to submissions and presenting to select committees. Her combination of legal expertise and practical consenting experience gives her valuable insight into how the proposed transitional provisions may affect practitioners, applicants and decision-makers.
The Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport is sponsoring these workshops as part of their commitment to supporting effective implementation of the new planning system. We are pleased to offer it free of charge. We expect this to be a popular session and spaces are limited to 1000 people. We encourage you to register early. It will be recorded and available for on demand viewing approximately one week after the event.
Understanding the Select Committee Report Breakfast
As you may be aware, the Select Committee Report on the two Bills to replace the RMA – the Natural Environment Bill and the Planning Bill – is now set to be released on 20th July 2026.
New Zealand Planning Institute's Chief Policy Officer, Emily Grace, will be analysing the Committee's report, reporting on how the Committee has responded to NZPI's submission points.
As both planners and environmental/local government lawyers will be interested in understanding the Select Committee’s report we thought this would be a wonderful opportunity for the NZPI and RMLA Otago branches to come together for an in-person breakfast event. Nothing like some RMA reform chat to help swallow your Bacon Buttie!
With that tantalising thought, please join us to grab a hot beverage and breakfast sustenance before we tune in to hear what Emily has to report at 9:00am. After her report has finished we can have a bit of a round the table korero amongst the group to share initial thoughts on the direction of travel and key changes that have materialised.
Please confirm your attendance by 23 July 2026.
Mid-winter Drinks - Nelson
RMLA and NZPI invite you to mid-winter drinks at Fanny’s.
This is a free event for NZPI and RMLA members. Wood-fired pizzas and canapés will be provided.
Please RSVP below by 23 July 2026.
True North | Te pae Tawhiti, Whaia Kia Tata | RMLA Conference (Copy)
In times of significant change, direction matters. The 2026 RMLA Conference invites practitioners, decision-makers and leaders to gather in Te Pēwhairangi / Bay of Islands, Northland, to consider what lies ahead for resource management in Aotearoa New Zealand.
RMA Reform and the Environment: A Political Panel Discussion
This is your opportunity to hear from our politicians about the things that matter – RMA reform and their environmental election priorities!
Representatives from the various political parties will be asked questions by host David Allen, and you – the audience!
Save the date: more information to come later in the year.
The Great RMLA/NZPI Debate 2026
For those in Christchurch on Wednesday,1 July, join us for an entertaining and thought-provoking clash between RMLA and NZPI, as some of the sharpest in our organisations tackle one of the most provocative propositions facing our professions today.
The Motion: OK Boomers, move over, it’s now the ideas and tools of Gen Alpha that will achieve the meaningful change and outcomes necessary to manage our resources for future generations.
After NZPI claimed victory in the last debate in 2021, RMLA is eager to reclaim the trophy. Come along, support your team, and enjoy an evening of lively discussion, sharp arguments, quick wit, audience participation, and networking with peers from across the sector.
Debaters:
Affirmative – NZPI: Helen Caley, Matt Bonis, and Matt Cambell
Negative – RMLA: Amanda Dewar, Andrew Schulte, and Dannielle Le Roux
Networking and Nibbles:
Following the debate, stay on for discussions and networking with peers from across the planning and environmental law sectors.
Light refreshments will be provided after the debate. Please advise any dietary requirements when registering. Beverages will be available from a cash bar (electronic) on a user-pays basis.
Event Details:
Cost: $20 per ticket
Capacity: Limited to 60 attendees, so register early to avoid disappointment.
Pathways to Practice – Breakfast with Barristers
Pathways to Practice is designed to explore the diverse ways professionals can build and shape their careers within the resource management field.
The Conservation Amendment Bill - What it Means for Use, Development and Concessions
Join us for a one-hour webinar unpacking what these reforms mean in practice — for concessionaires, developers, advisers, and anyone with an interest in how the conservation estate is managed.
EDS Conference - Beyond the Election
The 2026 EDS conference, “Beyond the election: A new mandate for our environment” will have a strong focus on the next term of government.
YRMLA Wellington - National Infrastructure Plan Presentation
The Young RMLA Wellington invites all early in career practitioners to a presentation from the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission / Te Waihanga on 28 May 2026 at 1:00pm.
Fast Track Approvals Act – Lessons Learnt So Far - Canterbury
You are invited to join the RMLA Canterbury/Westland Branch for a practical session with three presenters with recent Fast Track experience:
Philip Maw, Barrister: Philip has recently chaired a Fast Track panel.
Sarah Scott, Partner at Simpson Grierson: Sarah has been involved in several projects across the country for applicants and also acted for a number of territorial authorities and regional councils in respect of their roles in the fast track process.
Jeremy Philips, Director and Senior Planner at Novo Group: Jeremy has recent experience with several fast track applications.
This Fast Track session is intended to provide you with valuable insights from those who are actively involved in the Fast Track process in terms of both decision making, and applicant and council roles.
Whether you are a lawyer, planner, or expert, we encourage you to come geared with questions for this practical and insightful session.
Welcome drinks and networking commencing at 5 pm
Tickets: $40.00 for members ($50.00 for non-members)
Regional Spatial Plan Panel Event
The Bay of Plenty Branch of the RMLA invites you to attend a Regional Spatial Plan (RSP) panel event.
Once the Planning Bill receives Royal assent, the RSP needs to be notified within 15 months. With such a tight timeframe the region needs to start preparing as early as possible.
The panel will include officers from the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Rotorua Lakes Council. It will also include a development industry perspective.
The panel will discuss the Planning Bill requirements, expected similarities and differences from current plans, lessons learnt during previous spatial planning processes, the process through which the RSP will be developed and related Government reforms impacting growth funding and financing.
Welcome drinks and networking commencing at 5 pm
Tickets: $40.00 for members ($50.00 for non-members)
All are welcome.
Fast Track in Practice - Auckland
Join us for an engaging and interactive Q&A session with three panel members with significant Fast Track experience:
Daniel Minhinnick, Partner at Russell McVeagh: Daniel has chaired several Fast Track panels and has also acted on the applicant side on a range of projects.
Helen Atkins, Commissioner/ Barrister at Atkins Law: Helen is an Associate Panel Convenor and has also chaired several Fast Track panels.
Dr Phil Mitchell, Partner at Mitchell Daysh: Phil brings extensive fast-track experience, both as a panel chair and from the applicant side in the area of planning and resource management.
This is the second session in an interactive professional development series run by RMLA. The first session, held in October last year, traversed the "good" and the "bad" practices for council level hearings.
Following on from the success of that session, this Fast Track session is intended to provide you with valuable and candid insights from those who are deeply involved in the Fast Track process in terms of both decision making and applicant roles. Whether you are a lawyer, planner or expert, we encourage you to come geared with questions for this "conversational style" session.
To encourage open and frank discussion, the Chatham House Rule will apply. In addition to questions from the floor, attendees are encouraged to submit questions in advance for the panel’s consideration by emailing us by Friday 17 April 2026.
Spaces for this in person only session are limited — register now to secure your place.
Law, Technology & Government Conference
We’re pleased to share a third-party event that may be of interest to Members working in AI, technology, regulation, and public sector law.
The inaugural Law, Technology and Government Conference will be held at the University of Auckland from 15–17 April 2026 and brings together international legal scholars, judges, and practitioners to examine the governance and regulation of artificial intelligence, along with wider issues at the intersection of law, technology, and government.
This conference is likely to be particularly relevant for those interested in emerging legal risks, regulatory developments, and practical responses to rapid technological change. Further information, including the programme and registration details, is available on the event website.
New Zealand Climate Litigation Conference
More than 3,000 climate litigation cases have been filed worldwide, as civil society, communities and other claimants turn to the courts to drive climate action and accountability. A new legal architecture of climate responsibility is emerging, raising novel risks and questions across almost every area of legal practice.
Join leaders in domestic and international climate litigation for a one-day hybrid conference on 27 March 2026 to discuss and debate the most interesting and important issues in climate litigation. The programme will feature senior judges, academics, leading practitioners, and scientists from New Zealand and around the world. Topics will range from developments in public law and private law, to the significance of recent international judgments on climate change and discussion on the appropriate role of the Court in adjudicating climate-related issues.
This conference will be of interest to lawyers, company directors, sustainability professionals, students, and others working on or interested in climate change issues. It will count towards CPD for attendees.
You can find the conference programme here
NZPI Annual Conference - Registration Now Open!
NZPIC26 will mark the return to the head of the fish of Māui -Hoki mai ki te Ūpoko-o-te-ika-a-Māui, with planners coming together in Te Whanganui-a-Tara I Wellington. This location is significant not just because of the political home of Aotearoa / NZ, its close proximity to Te Wai Pounamu (South Island), its stunning and dynamic taiao, but also because of the people of Wellington and the connection to Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Te Atiawa and Taranaki Whānui.
It’s election year and Ministers and MPs from both sides of the house will be there to take your questions. The Ministry for the Environment will also be there, taking this significant opportunity to come face to face with practitioners from across the country, in the very place where a new planning system is being developed.
We have 10 keynote speakers lined up to share their wisdom and experience. They include Sally Smith, the Deputy Executive Director of the Property Council of South Australia, who personally oversaw the overhaul of South Australia’s planning system. Chuck Marohn, founder of Strong Towns and previous speaker at the Infrastructure NZ Conference in Wellington last year, will unpack why our communities are stuck in a cycle of decline and what it will take to break free. We have two panel discussions planned; our Political Debate Panel tackling all the heavy issues (including RM and LG reform) and a critical Panel Discussion with the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake on "Navigating Risk, Trust, and Science Communication in Planning".
Conference also brings 6 breakout streams where we have the space to get into the practical detail, while the field trips are your chance to see what’s happening in the Wellington Region and the influence of planning in practice. As always there’ll also be important networking opportunities across our social events.
Getting the best out of community consultation - mitigating downstream risks to projects
In recent years, community engagement has shifted beyond procedural compliance with statutory consultation. It is emerging as a strategic area of expertise that, when done well, builds public trust and local buy-in – helping to reduce downstream risks to project implementation. It can foster a more authentic understanding of a project’s social impact across communities.
Key Submission Points on new RM Bills (see new webinar date below)
RMLA’s high level submission points on the reform.
RM REFORM PHASE 3 - NATURAL ENVIRONMENT BILL WEBINAR
As the introduction of the Natural Environment Bill approaches, RMLA and NZPI are planning to hold a joint webinar to ensure our members are well positioned to understand and navigate the new system as quickly as possible after the proposed legislation lands. This is targeted 90-minute webinar, running from 12.00pm–1.30pm (70-minute presentation + 20-minute Q&A):
Focus: A first-look session outlining the major components of the Natural Environment Bill and what to expect during the early stages of engagement. Further details to be provided shortly.
Hold the date or register now:
RM REFORM PHASE 3 - PLANNING BILL WEBINAR
As the introduction of the Planning Bill approaches, RMLA and NZPI are planning to hold a joint webinar to ensure our members are well positioned to understand and navigate the new system as quickly as possible after the proposed legislation lands. This is targeted 90-minute webinar, running from 12.00pm–1.30pm (70-minute presentation + 20-minute Q&A):
Focus: An initial briefing on the Planning Bill to help members understand the structure, intent, and key levers proposed. Further information to be provided shortly.
Hold the date or register now:
Central Otago - Combined Christmas Function
Prizes for best dressed Christmas accessory / outfit!
Bay of Plenty: Joint yRMLA/NZPI - Emergency Planners Event
Young RMLA Bay of Plenty (joint with the Bay of Plenty Emerging Planners) is hosting an end-of-year networking event in December.
We’ll be serving some nibbles at two locations within the Bay of Plenty, Rotorua Lakes District Council and Tauranga Cooney Lees Morgan, as we connect, share insights, and celebrate the year that’s been. This is a great opportunity to meet fellow planners, discuss fast-track consenting, and look ahead to what’s next in the planning space.
We are very fortunate to have emerging presenters representing different aspects of the fast-track consent process:
Shawn Gardner - Intermediate Planner - Enspire
Shawn is an intermediate planner with about five years of professional planning experience in both New Zealand and the United States. With a bachelor's degree in environmental science and a master's degree in planning, Shawn has worked in a broad range of planning-related fields. Shawn has worked as a consultant planner for the Department of Conservation, supporting the fast-track process and as part of the project team that supports clients for both listed and referral applications within the fast-track regime. As significant changes emerge in the regulatory planning space within New Zealand, there are new opportunities for planners to engage with these new spaces in ways that add value and advance our shared needs. Shawn is excited to share their experience with the Fast-track process and engage with other Emerging Planners in our role in New Zealand's planning system as it adapts and changes.
Te Hau Gardiner - Solicitor - Cooney Lees Morgan
Te Hau specialises in resource management and environmental law, advising clients on planning and consenting processes, particularly from a local government perspective, under legislative frameworks including the Resource Management Act, Public Works Act, and the Local Government Act. He will bring a legal lens to the discussion on how fast-track consenting is tracking, the opportunities and challenges it presents, and what this could mean for councils and planners moving forward.
🔹When: 3 December, 5:00 pm
🔹 Rotorua Location: Rotorua Lakes District Council
Register here for the Rotorua event
🔹Tauranga Location: Cooney Lees Morgan
Register here for the Tauranga event
🔹 Why: Networking, knowledge, and festive vibes
Let’s wrap up 2025 with great conversations and even better connections!
NOTE: Registration is via the NZPI website. If you don’t have an existing account with them, first click on LOGIN and then create a GUEST ACCOUNT before proceeding to CHECK OUT.
Bay of Plenty Christmas Party
Get a head start on the festive season! REGISTRATIONS HAVE NOW CLOSED
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Taranaki Council Round-Up
We will be joined by representatives from Taranaki Regional Council, New Plymouth District Council, Stratford District Council and South Taranaki District Council who will each offer their take on hot topics and current issues in the consenting and planning space across the region.
RMA and the Direction of Reform with Hon. Chris Bishop
The Young RMLA Wellington invites you to hear Hon Chris Bishop MP to speak on RMA reform. The event will shine light on Mr Bishop’s thinking on issues with the RMA and the direction of reform. With the much-anticipated replacement for the RMA soon to be announced, this event is not one to miss.
Prompt Like a Pro: Practical AI Techniques for Professionals
Prompt Like A Pro: Practical AI Techniques for Professionals is a high-energy, hands-on workshop where you’ll practice live with ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity while learning the PILLARS framework for reliably great prompts.
Dunedin Christmas Party
The Ultimate Quiz Night Christmas Party
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
YRMLA Canterbury - End of Year Lawn Bowls
Canterbury-Westland Emerging Planners and yRMLA are joining forces to celebrate the year that’s been! Come along for an afternoon of lawn bowls, great company, and plenty of laughs as we wrap up 2025 and look ahead to another exciting year.
This is a free event, proudly sponsored by Barker & Associates and supported by RMLA. We’ll provide the food and cover the cost of bowls, all you need to do is turn up and have fun!
It’s a relaxed and social way to connect, celebrate the relationships we’ve built, and continue strengthening the ties between new-in-career resource management practitioners after what has been a great year in our region.
Spaces are limited, so make sure to register and secure your spot. We can’t wait to see you there!
Ready to register?
If you have any questions about this event, please email Maisie Fisher, maisief@barker.co.nz or Shanae Richardson, shanae.richardson@simpsongrierson.com
yRMLA Hearings 101
Drawing on their respective expertise in law, acoustics and planning, our speakers will walk through the hearings process, share practical tips, and answer your questions.
Making Your Case Count: Insights from Experienced Commissioners
Whether you are an expert witness, planner, lawyer, council officer, or fellow commissioner, this event offers an opportunity to up-skill and hear directly from some of the best decision-makers.
Canterbury/Westland - Council Round-up 2025
RMLA Canterbury/Westland are again holding a Council Round-up for 2025.
Representatives from Environment Canterbury, Christchurch City Council, Selwyn District Council, Waimakariri District Council and Ashburton District Council (at least) will speak with members.
With all that is going on within the region and our districts, there’s bound to be something of interest to all members. From the impending RMA reforms through to Fast Track applications, it feels like there has never been a better time to hear from our councils on what they are up to. Each council representative will, again, be able to enlighten attendees on their cause(s) de jour and matters of interest, and how we, as professionals, can do our bit to keep the planning wheels turning.
As in previous year’s we’re encouraging full and frank discussion and questions by employing Chatham House rules, which also means we will not be streaming or recording the event.
Drinks and nibbles will be provided. For catering purposes, please let us know if you have any dietary requirements.
Please register as seating is limited.
Finally, please remember to sign the register on the day to receive 1 CPD point.
See you at the 2025 Round-up!