Property news
Planning reform: what property owners should check
A government update on electricity and telecommunications planning rules, with practical questions to raise before a property project.
By New Zealand Realty · Edition published
New Zealand · Rentals · Sales
RMA update focuses on electricity and telecommunications
On 8 October 2026, the Government announced the completion of its programme of changes to national direction under the Resource Management Act. The final changes concern electricity network activities and telecommunication facilities. The announcement describes more consistent rules for network maintenance and upgrades, as well as protections around electricity infrastructure. It also places these changes within the transition towards a replacement planning system.
NZ Realty owner perspective
For an owner planning building work, a new connection or development near network infrastructure, the useful next step is to ask the council and relevant network provider which current rules apply to the proposed work. Treat the announcement as a starting point for those questions, rather than confirmation that a particular project needs no consent. This update does not establish how an individual property’s rent or value will change.
Original source: New Zealand Government — RMA national direction reforms complete
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