69692 (2024). Steve Abel to the Minister responsible for RMA Reform

69692 (2024). Steve Abel to the Minister responsible for RMA Reform: What reports, advice, briefings or any other document, if any, has the Minister received on policy development for urban trees and green spaces since January 2024?

Hon Chris Bishop: In my capacity as the Minister Responsible for Resource Management Reform, I have not received any substantive reports, advice, briefings or any other documents about urban trees and green spaces in 2024. The Government is taking a phased approach to resource management reform and has committed to replacing the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) with legislation based on the enjoyment of property rights, while ensuring good environmental outcomes as our guiding principle. Phase Three of the resource management reform will include a whole-of-system review of the RMA, and the introduction of two replacement Acts: one to manage environmental effects, and the other to enable urban development and infrastructure. I have established an Expert Advisory Group tasked with developing a practical plan for replacing the RMA that officials can then turn into new legislation. This blueprint is due before the end of December this year. There will be opportunities through the Phase Three process to consider these aspects.