In early October, just out from election day (with the result unknown at the time of going to press), Environment Minister David Parker released a draft National Planning Framework (NPF) document under the new resource management legislation. 

According to the government statement, the framework brings together around 20 existing instruments including policy statements, standards, and other regulations. Minister Parker highlighted the new chapter on infrastructure.

"This first, or transitional, NPF will particularly focus on supporting development of the new regional spatial strategies," the Minister said.

"There would be no obligation on an incoming government to continue the board of inquiry process if it repeals the Natural and Built Environment Act and reverts to the RMA."

Minister Parker said the government was also establishing a Freshwater Working Group to provide a report on water allocation issues.

"The working group is required by law to report back by 31 October 2024 - this is a tight deadline, so work needs to get under way. Again, an incoming government could reverse this work by changing the law," he said.

See Thomson Reuters Alert24 Your Environment on Westlaw for more information and a link to the draft NPF document.