Geothermal keeps renewable electricity generation high despite hydro dip
The latest Energy Quarterly data release from MBIE shows a combination of record geothermal electricity generation and reduced energy demand in the April to June 2025 quarter kept overall renewable generation high.
EDS launches blueprint for durable oceans reform
The Environmental Defence Society has released its landmark report Pathway to Oceans Reform, setting out a practical programme to fix Aotearoa New Zealand’s broken oceans management system.
Housing Minister’s speech to The Property Council
Read the Housing Minister Hon Chris Bishop’s address to The Property Conference in Queenstown.
PCE feedback on the proposed National Conservation Policy Statement
The Parliamentary Commissioner has provided feedback to the Department of Conservation regarding their consultation on proposed content for a National Conservation Policy Statement.
PCE letter response to Waihi North invitation to comment
The fast-track panel, considering the Waihi North application invited the PCE to comment on the project.
The Parliamentary Commissioner recommended that the panel pay particular attention to certain aspects of the project in its assessment, including the need for a robust and reliable assessment of both the benefits and costs (CBA) of the proposed project.
Removing barriers to aquaculture growth
Another piece of red tape potentially curtailing the growth of the aquaculture industry has been cut with the passing of a bill that protects marine farmers from costly consent reviews.
PCE submission on Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill
The Commissioner has made a submission on the Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill. He expresses concern that the proposed list of ‘core services’ for local authorities is too restrictive.
EDS launches major new report on risks and solutions in replacing the Resource Management Act
The Environmental Defence Society (EDS) has released its third and final report in a multi-year project examining the Government’s ‘phase 3’ resource management reforms: Replacing the Resource Management Act – Risks and Solutions.
New Zealand’s renewable energy supply reaches record high
MBIE has released the latest Energy in New Zealand report, providing a comprehensive overview of the country’s energy production and consumption in 2024.
Greatest ever protection for Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana
The Government has moved a step closer to nearly tripling marine protection for the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana that will help restore precious biodiversity while enabling New Zealanders to benefit for generations.
International treaty on plastic pollution update
Talks to develop an international treaty on plastic pollution did not reach a consensus as negotiations came to an end on 15 August 2025.
Auckland Council to consider draft rules to boost flood protections and housing
Draft changes to Auckland’s planning rules to better protect people and property from floods and other hazards, while enabling more homes near transport and jobs, will be considered by the Auckland Council’s Policy and Planning Committee on 21 August.