Updated rainfall data free to use
The High Intensity Rainfall Design System (HIRDS), developed by Earth Sciences New Zealand, helps planners and engineers estimate how much rain could fall at a location, over different durations, and how frequently rainfall of that magnitude might occur.
Infrastructure Commission 2025–2026 Annual Report published
The Infrastructure Commissions’ Annual Report for the period 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026 is now available.
Fast-track process enters the post-election caretaker period
The Fast-track team confirmed on 4 November that agencies and expert panels will continue processing applications, appointing panels, and issuing decisions during the caretaker period.
First evidence that climate change fuelled wildfires are changing methane in our atmosphere on a global scale
Earth Sciences New Zealand-led analysis in the World Meteorological Organisation’s annual report on global greenhouse gases has revealed a shift in the source of methane emissions, potentially signalling the beginning of a large-scale climate change feedback in Earth’s natural system.
Feedback on the Illustrative National Policy Direction
This feedback is made by the Resource Management Law Association | Te Kāhui
Ture Taiao (RMLA) on New Zealand’s New Planning System: Testing the Approach
to National Policy Direction (August 2026), the illustrative National Policy Direction (iNPD).
Have your say on draft earthquake-prone building guidance
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is seeking feedback on draft guidance for how New Zealand’s new Earthquake-Prone Building (EPB) system will work in practice.
PCE submission on the illustrative National Policy Direction
The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment has submitted on the Government's illustrative National Policy Direction (NPD) – the first look at how the goals of the recently enacted Planning Act and Natural Environment Act will be translated into the policy direction that guides decision makers.
Janette Campbell Appointed King's Counsel
The RMLA congratulates Janette Campbell on her appointment as King's Counsel, announced by Attorney-General Chris Bishop on 16 October 2026. Janette was one of 12 barristers appointed from more than 100 applicants.
Waste disposal levy review highlights progress in reducing waste
A new review of New Zealand’s waste disposal levy has found a reduction in the amount of waste being sent to landfill and signs of increased resource recovery, recycling and reuse.
PCE outlines strategic intentions 2026–2030
This strategy sets out the Commissioner's priorities, intended outcomes and approach for the next four years.
Chief Freshwater Commissioner and commissioners appointed
A Chief Freshwater Commissioner and five freshwater commissioners have been appointed to complete planning work under the Resource Management Act 1991 during the transition to the new planning system.
Investigation into Apollo Stadium site planning rules
An investigation has been launched into whether Christchurch planning rules are getting in the way of new housing, economic growth and the future redevelopment of the former Apollo Projects Stadium site.