54583 (2025). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister responsible for RMA Reform

Written Question

Published date: 12 Dec 2025

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	54583 (2025)
Question asked:	20 Nov 2025
Member asking:	Debbie Ngarewa-Packer
Portfolio:	Minister responsible for RMA Reform
Minister replying:	Hon Chris Bishop
Answer received:	07 Dec 2025
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_54583_2025
Document guid:	fad85884-cf40-4bc3-8e2e-dc79cb9b5edb

54583 (2025). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister responsible for RMA Reform: How will the Minister ensure that fast‑tracked supermarket approvals do not override local planning processes, Māori community interests, or environmental protections, if any safeguards are in place?

Hon Chris Bishop: The Fast-track Approvals Amendment Bill does not amend the provisions requiring expert panels to assess the adverse impacts of projects in the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 (section 81(3)). Applications for supermarkets will need to be assessed against all provisions in the Act, as would any other project.