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Fast-track Approvals Act 2024

Summary of changes

These summaries explain recent changes to the law. They are generated by AI comparing versions of the legislation, so they might oversimplify, miss details, or get things wrong. Learn more about how we track these changes.

17 December 2025

  • Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  • Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments
  • Updated provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and the role of the Director-General of Conservation
  • Revised provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role and the consideration of comments and advice
  • Amended provisions related to cost recovery, including the setting of fees and charges and the recovery of costs
  • Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel
  • Revised provisions related to the application process, including the requirements for substantive applications and the consideration of competing applications
  • Amended provisions related to the decision-making process, including the consideration of regional or national benefits and the treatment of advice and information
  • Updated provisions related to the use of specified Acts to apply for approval, including the process for withdrawing an application
  • Revised provisions related to the service and publication of decision documents, including the issue and service of documents
  • Amended provisions related to the suspension and resumption of processing substantive applications, including the role of the EPA and the applicant
  • Updated provisions related to the consideration of aquaculture activities, including the request for recommendations and the making of decisions
  • Revised provisions related to the conduct of hearings, including the provision of remote access and the making of hearings available to the public
  • Amended provisions related to the determination of ineligible activities, including the consideration of linear infrastructure on Māori land
  • Updated provisions related to the decline of approvals, including the criteria and process for decline
  • Revised provisions related to the setting of conditions, including the requirement that conditions be no more onerous than necessary
  • Amended provisions related to the interpretation of terms and the application of the Act, including the definition of 'wildlife' and the reference to the chief executive of a department
  • Updated provisions related to the transitional, savings, and related provisions, including the empowering provision and the reference to the Interim Fast-track Consenting Act
  • Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions

Affected provisions

  1. 1: Transitional, savings, and related provisions
    Updated provisions related to the transitional, savings, and related provisions, including the empowering provision and the reference to the Interim Fast-track Consenting Act; Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  2. 3: Expert panel
    Revised provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role and the consideration of comments and advice; Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  3. 4: Interpretation
    Amended provisions related to the interpretation of terms and the application of the Act, including the definition of 'wildlife' and the reference to the chief executive of a department
  4. 4: Land on which non-mining activities are ineligible
    Updated provisions related to the transitional, savings, and related provisions, including the empowering provision and the reference to the Interim Fast-track Consenting Act; Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  5. 5: Approvals relating to Resource Management Act 1991
    Updated provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and the role of the Director-General of Conservation; Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  6. 6: Approvals relating to Conservation Act 1987, Reserves Act 1977, Wildlife Act 1953, and National Parks Act 1980
    Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  7. 7: Obligation relating to Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Amended provisions related to the interpretation of terms and the application of the Act, including the definition of 'wildlife' and the reference to the chief executive of a department
  8. 7: Approvals relating to Wildlife Act 1953
    Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  9. 8: Te Ture Whaimana
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Amended provisions related to the interpretation of terms and the application of the Act, including the definition of 'wildlife' and the reference to the chief executive of a department
  10. 8: Approvals relating to Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014
    Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  11. 9: Act binds the Crown
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Amended provisions related to the interpretation of terms and the application of the Act, including the definition of 'wildlife' and the reference to the chief executive of a department
  12. 10: Procedural principles
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  13. 10: Approvals relating to Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012
    Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  14. 11: Approvals relating to Crown Minerals Act 1991
    Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  15. 12: Modifications to process under Public Works Act 1981 to take or deal with land
    Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  16. 13: Referral application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments
  17. 13: Amendments to other legislation
    Updated provisions related to the transitional, savings, and related provisions, including the empowering provision and the reference to the Interim Fast-track Consenting Act; Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  18. 14: Responsible agency decides whether referral application is complete and within scope
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments
  19. 16: Effect of Treaty settlements and other obligations on decision making
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Amended provisions related to the interpretation of terms and the application of the Act, including the definition of 'wildlife' and the reference to the chief executive of a department; Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  20. 17: Minister invites comments
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments
  21. 19: Report in relation to use of public conservation land
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Amended provisions related to the interpretation of terms and the application of the Act, including the definition of 'wildlife' and the reference to the chief executive of a department
  22. 20: Minister may request information
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments
  23. 21: Minister's decision on referral application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the application process, including the requirements for substantive applications and the consideration of competing applications
  24. 22: Criteria for assessing referral application
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel
  25. 23: Minister may determine that linear infrastructure on certain identified Māori land is not ineligible activity
    Amended provisions related to the determination of ineligible activities, including the consideration of linear infrastructure on Māori land
  26. 25: Timing of decision to decline referral application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the application process, including the requirements for substantive applications and the consideration of competing applications
  27. 27: Minister specifies matters for accepted referral application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  28. 28: Notice of Minister's decision on referral application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  29. 32: Sections 32A to 36 apply to land exchange
    Updated provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and the role of the Director-General of Conservation
  30. 33: Land exchange application lodged with Director-General of Conservation
    Updated provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and the role of the Director-General of Conservation
  31. 35: Director-General of Conservation’s report on land exchange
    Updated provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and the role of the Director-General of Conservation
  32. 40: Process under this Act applies instead of process under specified Act
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the application process, including the requirements for substantive applications and the consideration of competing applications
  33. 41: Application of panel process to land exchange
    Updated provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and the role of the Director-General of Conservation
  34. 42: Authorised person may lodge substantive application for approvals
    Amended provisions related to the decision-making process, including the consideration of regional or national benefits and the treatment of advice and information
  35. 43: Requirements for substantive application
    Revised provisions related to the application process, including the requirements for substantive applications and the consideration of competing applications
  36. 46: EPA decides whether substantive application is complete and within scope
    Revised provisions related to the application process, including the requirements for substantive applications and the consideration of competing applications
  37. 48: EPA requests recommendation in relation to aquaculture activities
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments; Revised provisions related to the application process, including the requirements for substantive applications and the consideration of competing applications; Updated provisions related to the consideration of aquaculture activities, including the request for recommendations and the making of decisions
  38. 51: Panel convener obtains other advice and reports
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role and the consideration of comments and advice
  39. 53: Panel invites comments on substantive application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments
  40. 54: General provisions relating to invitations given under section 53
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments
  41. 55: Response to comments provided under section 53
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments
  42. 56: Hearing not required
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  43. 57: Procedure if hearing is held
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  44. 58: Other provisions about conduct of hearing
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the conduct of hearings, including the provision of remote access and the making of hearings available to the public
  45. 59: Remote access hearing
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the conduct of hearings, including the provision of remote access and the making of hearings available to the public
  46. 60: When processing of substantive application may be suspended
    Amended provisions related to the suspension and resumption of processing substantive applications, including the role of the EPA and the applicant
  47. 61: EPA may direct suspension in processing substantive application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments; Amended provisions related to the suspension and resumption of processing substantive applications, including the role of the EPA and the applicant
  48. 62: Panel convener may direct suspension in processing substantive application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role and the consideration of comments and advice; Amended provisions related to the suspension and resumption of processing substantive applications, including the role of the EPA and the applicant
  49. 63: Resumption in processing substantive application following suspension under section 62
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  50. 64: Applicant may request suspension of processing substantive application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role and the consideration of comments and advice
  51. 65: Resumption in processing of substantive application following suspension under section 64
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the suspension and resumption of processing substantive applications, including the role of the EPA and the applicant
  52. 66: Return of substantive application
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role and the consideration of comments and advice
  53. 67: Panel may request further information or report
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role and the consideration of comments and advice
  54. 70: Panel seeks comment on draft conditions before granting approval
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Updated provisions related to the use of specified Acts to apply for approval, including the process for withdrawing an application; Updated provisions related to the consideration of aquaculture activities, including the request for recommendations and the making of decisions
  55. 71: Panel provides draft conditions relating to aquaculture activities for recommendation
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role and the consideration of comments and advice; Revised provisions related to the service and publication of decision documents, including the issue and service of documents; Updated provisions related to the consideration of aquaculture activities, including the request for recommendations and the making of decisions
  56. 80: Aquaculture decision required for certain coastal permits
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Updated provisions related to the use of specified Acts to apply for approval, including the process for withdrawing an application; Updated provisions related to the consideration of aquaculture activities, including the request for recommendations and the making of decisions
  57. 81: Decisions on approvals sought in substantive application
    Amended provisions related to the decision-making process, including the consideration of regional or national benefits and the treatment of advice and information; Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  58. 82: Effect of Treaty settlements and other obligations on decision making
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Amended provisions related to the decision-making process, including the consideration of regional or national benefits and the treatment of advice and information; Updated provisions related to the decline of approvals, including the criteria and process for decline
  59. 83: Conditions must be no more onerous than necessary
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Amended provisions related to the decision-making process, including the consideration of regional or national benefits and the treatment of advice and information; Updated provisions related to the decline of approvals, including the criteria and process for decline; Revised provisions related to the setting of conditions, including the requirement that conditions be no more onerous than necessary
  60. 84: Conditions relating to Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Amended provisions related to the decision-making process, including the consideration of regional or national benefits and the treatment of advice and information; Updated provisions related to the decline of approvals, including the criteria and process for decline; Revised provisions related to the setting of conditions, including the requirement that conditions be no more onerous than necessary
  61. 85: When panel must or may decline approvals
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Updated provisions related to the consideration of aquaculture activities, including the request for recommendations and the making of decisions; Amended provisions related to the determination of ineligible activities, including the consideration of linear infrastructure on Māori land
  62. 87: Content of panel decision documents
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role and the consideration of comments and advice
  63. 88: Issue, service, and publication of decision documents
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the service and publication of decision documents, including the issue and service of documents
  64. 89: Minor corrections
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the service and publication of decision documents, including the issue and service of documents
  65. 94: Use of specified Act to apply for approval
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to the EPA's role and responsibilities, including the processing of applications and the invitation of comments; Amended provisions related to cost recovery, including the setting of fees and charges and the recovery of costs; Updated provisions related to the use of specified Acts to apply for approval, including the process for withdrawing an application
  66. 97: Commencement of approval
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  67. 99: Appeal against decisions only on question of law
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  68. 100: Procedural matters
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  69. 104: Cost recovery
    Amended provisions related to cost recovery, including the setting of fees and charges and the recovery of costs
  70. 106: Methods of cost recovery
    Amended provisions related to cost recovery, including the setting of fees and charges and the recovery of costs
  71. 108: Regulations may set fees, charges, and contributions
    Amended provisions related to cost recovery, including the setting of fees and charges and the recovery of costs
  72. 113: Service of documents
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering
  73. 114: Notices in relation to Māori land
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Revised provisions related to the application process, including the requirements for substantive applications and the consideration of competing applications
  74. 115: Schedules 5 to 12 have effect
    Updated provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights, including the role of the Minister and the panel; Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  75. 116: Regulations
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering; Amended provisions related to cost recovery, including the setting of fees and charges and the recovery of costs
  76. 118: Order in Council to amend Schedule 4
    Revised provisions related to the schedules, including the update of Schedule 4 and the addition of new provisions
  77. 121: Amendments to other legislation
    Updated references to section numbers and provision titles to reflect changes in the Act's numbering

20 March 2025

  • Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content
  • Changes were made to the definitions and interpretations of terms, including the addition of new definitions and updates to existing ones
  • The process for lodging and assessing referral applications was updated, including new requirements and criteria for eligibility
  • Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated
  • Changes were made to the requirements and process for substantive applications, including new conditions and information requirements
  • Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals
  • Provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and requirements, were updated
  • Changes were made to the provisions related to aquaculture activities, including new criteria and requirements for decision-making
  • Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  • Provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights were updated
  • Changes were made to the provisions related to the appeal process, including the time frame for filing a notice of appeal and other procedural matters

Affected provisions

  1. LMS989554
    Provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights were updated
  2. 1: Transitional, savings, and related provisions
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  3. 2: Listed projects with significant regional or national benefits
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  4. 3: Expert panel
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  5. 4: Interpretation
    Changes were made to the definitions and interpretations of terms, including the addition of new definitions and updates to existing ones
  6. 4: Land on which non-mining activities are ineligible
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  7. 5: Meaning of ineligible activity
    Changes were made to the definitions and interpretations of terms, including the addition of new definitions and updates to existing ones; Changes were made to the provisions related to aquaculture activities, including new criteria and requirements for decision-making
  8. 5: Approvals relating to Resource Management Act 1991
    Changes were made to the definitions and interpretations of terms, including the addition of new definitions and updates to existing ones; Changes were made to the provisions related to aquaculture activities, including new criteria and requirements for decision-making; Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  9. 6: Transitional, savings, and related provisions
    Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content
  10. 6: Approvals relating to Conservation Act 1987, Reserves Act 1977, Wildlife Act 1953, and National Parks Act 1980
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  11. 7: Obligation relating to Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights
    Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content; Provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights were updated
  12. 7: Approvals relating to Wildlife Act 1953
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  13. 8: Approvals relating to Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  14. 9: Act binds the Crown
    Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content
  15. 10: Approvals relating to Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  16. 11: Approvals relating to Crown Minerals Act 1991
    Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content; Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  17. 13: Referral application
    The process for lodging and assessing referral applications was updated, including new requirements and criteria for eligibility
  18. 13: Amendments to other legislation
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  19. 14: Responsible agency decides whether referral application is complete and within scope
    The process for lodging and assessing referral applications was updated, including new requirements and criteria for eligibility
  20. 16: Effect of Treaty settlements and other obligations on decision making
    Provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights were updated
  21. 21: Minister's decision on referral application
    The process for lodging and assessing referral applications was updated, including new requirements and criteria for eligibility
  22. 22: Criteria for assessing referral application
    The process for lodging and assessing referral applications was updated, including new requirements and criteria for eligibility
  23. 25: Timing of decision to decline referral application
    The process for lodging and assessing referral applications was updated, including new requirements and criteria for eligibility
  24. 27: Minister specifies matters for accepted referral application
    Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals
  25. 28: Notice of Minister's decision on referral application
    Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals
  26. 32: Sections 32A to 36 apply to land exchange
    Provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and requirements, were updated
  27. 33: Land exchange application lodged with Director-General of Conservation
    Provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and requirements, were updated
  28. 35: Director-General of Conservation’s report on land exchange
    Provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and requirements, were updated
  29. 40: Process under this Act applies instead of process under specified Act
    The process for lodging and assessing referral applications was updated, including new requirements and criteria for eligibility
  30. 41: Application of panel process to land exchange
    Changes were made to the requirements and process for substantive applications, including new conditions and information requirements; Provisions related to land exchange, including the application process and requirements, were updated
  31. 42: Authorised person may lodge substantive application for approvals
    The process for lodging and assessing referral applications was updated, including new requirements and criteria for eligibility
  32. 43: Requirements for substantive application
    Changes were made to the requirements and process for substantive applications, including new conditions and information requirements
  33. 46: EPA decides whether substantive application is complete and within scope
    Changes were made to the requirements and process for substantive applications, including new conditions and information requirements
  34. 48: EPA requests recommendation in relation to aquaculture activities
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated; Changes were made to the provisions related to aquaculture activities, including new criteria and requirements for decision-making
  35. 51: Panel convener obtains other advice and reports
    Changes were made to the requirements and process for substantive applications, including new conditions and information requirements
  36. 53: Panel invites comments on substantive application
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated
  37. 54: General provisions relating to invitations given under section 53
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated; Provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights were updated
  38. 56: Hearing not required
    Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content
  39. 58: Other provisions about conduct of hearing
    Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content
  40. 59: Remote access hearing
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated
  41. 60: When processing of substantive application may be suspended
    Changes were made to the requirements and process for substantive applications, including new conditions and information requirements
  42. 62: Panel convener may direct suspension in processing substantive application
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated
  43. 63: Resumption in processing substantive application following suspension under section 62
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated
  44. 64: Applicant may request suspension of processing substantive application
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated
  45. 66: Return of substantive application
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated
  46. 71: Panel provides draft conditions relating to aquaculture activities for recommendation
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated; Changes were made to the provisions related to aquaculture activities, including new criteria and requirements for decision-making
  47. 80: Aquaculture decision required for certain coastal permits
    Changes were made to the provisions related to aquaculture activities, including new criteria and requirements for decision-making
  48. 81: Decisions on approvals sought in substantive application
    Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals
  49. 82: Effect of Treaty settlements and other obligations on decision making
    Provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights were updated
  50. 83: Conditions must be no more onerous than necessary
    Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals; Provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights were updated
  51. 84: Conditions relating to Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights
    Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals; Provisions related to the consideration of Treaty settlements and recognised customary rights were updated
  52. 85: When panel must or may decline approvals
    Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals
  53. 88: Issue, service, and publication of decision documents
    Provisions related to the panel process, including the convener's role, suspension of processing, and resumption of processing, were updated
  54. 94: Use of specified Act to apply for approval
    Changes were made to the requirements and process for substantive applications, including new conditions and information requirements; Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals
  55. 95: Exercise of existing approval under specified Act while applying for approval under this Act
    Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals
  56. 97: Commencement of approval
    Updates were made to the provisions related to approvals, including the decision-making process, conditions, and the exercise of existing approvals
  57. 99: Appeal against decisions only on question of law
    Changes were made to the provisions related to the appeal process, including the time frame for filing a notice of appeal and other procedural matters
  58. 100: Procedural matters
    Changes were made to the provisions related to the appeal process, including the time frame for filing a notice of appeal and other procedural matters
  59. 114: Notices in relation to Māori land
    Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content; Changes were made to the provisions related to aquaculture activities, including new criteria and requirements for decision-making
  60. 115: Schedules 5 to 12 have effect
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  61. 116: Regulations
    Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content
  62. 118: Order in Council to amend Schedule 4
    Updates were made to the schedules, including changes to the empowering provisions, definitions, and modifications to other legislation
  63. 121: Amendments to other legislation
    Updated provision numbers and minor formatting changes were made to various sections without substantive changes to their content

14 May 2025

  • Updated notice requirements for iwi authorities or Treaty settlement entities to reference subsection (1)(a)(ii) instead of subsection (1)(b)
  • Rephrased or replaced words for clarity in various provisions without changing substantive meaning
  • Expanded the scope of provisions to apply to additional sections or clauses
  • Updated the project proponent for Mt Welcome, Pukerua Bay, Porirua in Schedule 2

Affected provisions

  1. 2: Listed projects with significant regional or national benefits
    Updated the project proponent for Mt Welcome, Pukerua Bay, Porirua in Schedule 2
  2. 28: Notice of Minister's decision on referral application
    Updated notice requirements for iwi authorities or Treaty settlement entities to reference subsection (1)(a)(ii) instead of subsection (1)(b)
  3. 33: Land exchange application lodged with Director-General of Conservation
    Rephrased or replaced words for clarity in various provisions without changing substantive meaning
  4. 43: Requirements for substantive application
    Expanded the scope of provisions to apply to additional sections or clauses
  5. 73: Sections 74 to 78 apply to concession, land exchange, and access arrangement
    Expanded the scope of provisions to apply to additional sections or clauses
  6. 103: Interpretation
    Rephrased or replaced words for clarity in various provisions without changing substantive meaning

16 June 2025

  • Updated listed projects in Schedule 2 to include new entities and reflect amendments made by the Fast-track Approvals Order 2025

Affected provisions

  1. 2: Listed projects with significant regional or national benefits
    Updated listed projects in Schedule 2 to include new entities and reflect amendments made by the Fast-track Approvals Order 2025

18 July 2025

  • The requirement to provide occupier details has been amended to only apply to identifiable occupiers after reasonable inquiry

Affected provisions

  1. 5: Approvals relating to Resource Management Act 1991
    The requirement to provide occupier details has been amended to only apply to identifiable occupiers after reasonable inquiry

7 August 2025

  • Updated provision references for clarity and consolidation without substantive legal changes
  • Minor formatting changes and legislative link updates were made

Affected provisions

  1. 13: Referral application
    Minor formatting changes and legislative link updates were made
  2. 15: Process after Minister receives referral application
    Updated provision references for clarity and consolidation without substantive legal changes
  3. 33: Land exchange application lodged with Director-General of Conservation
    Updated provision references for clarity and consolidation without substantive legal changes
  4. 41: Application of panel process to land exchange
    Updated provision references for clarity and consolidation without substantive legal changes
  5. 48: EPA requests recommendation in relation to aquaculture activities
    Updated provision references for clarity and consolidation without substantive legal changes
  6. 104: Cost recovery
    Updated provision references for clarity and consolidation without substantive legal changes
  7. 115: Schedules 5 to 12 have effect
    Updated provision references for clarity and consolidation without substantive legal changes

12 September 2025

  • Updated reference link in the definition of conservation covenant

Affected provisions

  1. 42: Authorised person may lodge substantive application for approvals
    Updated reference link in the definition of conservation covenant

5 December 2025

  • The proponent of the Foxton Solar Farm project has been updated to Genesis Energy Limited

Affected provisions

  1. 2: Listed projects with significant regional or national benefits
    The proponent of the Foxton Solar Farm project has been updated to Genesis Energy Limited

14 January 2026

  • The definition of 'administering agency' has been amended to include and exclude various entities
  • Regulations may now provide for the costs that may be recovered under section 104, including setting upper limits and a dispute resolution process
  • The cost recovery provision now requires that actual and reasonable costs be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 108
  • The EPA may apply interest accruing from fees, charges, and levies to costs recoverable under section 104 or met by the imposition of a levy under section 109
  • The provision for identification of existing resource consent for the same activity has been amended to replace 'consent authority' with 'regional council' and add a 10-working-day time frame
  • Appeals can now be made by any person or group that provided comments in response to an invitation given under certain sections
  • Transitional, savings, and related provisions have been inserted into Schedule 1 in relation to the Fast-track Approvals Amendment Act 2025
  • The title of Schedule 2 has been amended and various projects listed in the schedule have been amended or updated
  • The liability provision in Schedule 3 has been amended to separately address the liability of the panel convener or associate panel convener and the members appointed to a panel
  • Provisions relating to conservation areas and Crown-owned reserves have been amended, including the report requirements and conditions that may be imposed by the panel
  • The definition of 'wildlife approval' has been amended and the Director-General of Conservation's powers to manage wildlife approvals have been expanded
  • Requirements for granting a mining permit under the Crown Minerals Act 1991 have been updated
  • The circumstances under which processing of a substantive application may be suspended have been amended, and the power to direct suspension has been transferred from the Minister to the panel convener
  • The Director-General of Conservation's report on land exchange has been amended to include any other person considered appropriate and to require relevant comments from local authorities or administering agencies
  • Sections 32A to 36 now apply to land exchange, and the application of certain sections has been modified
  • The panel must consider the Minister's reasons for accepting the referral application and relevant Government policy statements when deciding on approvals, and may impose conditions under new section 84A
  • The Minister must consider a relevant Government policy statement and may consider whether a project promotes competition in the grocery industry when assessing a referral application
  • The resumption of processing a substantive application following suspension under sections 62 or 64 has been amended to allow either the panel convener or the panel to resume processing

Affected provisions

  1. LMS963 is not present, using LMS969246 and LMS985174 as they relate to suspension and resumption
    The resumption of processing a substantive application following suspension under sections 62 or 64 has been amended to allow either the panel convener or the panel to resume processing
  2. 1: Transitional, savings, and related provisions
    Transitional, savings, and related provisions have been inserted into Schedule 1 in relation to the Fast-track Approvals Amendment Act 2025
  3. 2: Listed projects with significant regional or national benefits
    The title of Schedule 2 has been amended and various projects listed in the schedule have been amended or updated
  4. 3: Expert panel
    The liability provision in Schedule 3 has been amended to separately address the liability of the panel convener or associate panel convener and the members appointed to a panel
  5. 4: Interpretation
    The definition of 'administering agency' has been amended to include and exclude various entities
  6. 6: Approvals relating to Conservation Act 1987, Reserves Act 1977, Wildlife Act 1953, and National Parks Act 1980
    Provisions relating to conservation areas and Crown-owned reserves have been amended, including the report requirements and conditions that may be imposed by the panel
  7. 7: Approvals relating to Wildlife Act 1953
    The definition of 'wildlife approval' has been amended and the Director-General of Conservation's powers to manage wildlife approvals have been expanded
  8. 11: Approvals relating to Crown Minerals Act 1991
    Requirements for granting a mining permit under the Crown Minerals Act 1991 have been updated
  9. 22: Criteria for assessing referral application
    The Minister must consider a relevant Government policy statement and may consider whether a project promotes competition in the grocery industry when assessing a referral application
  10. 30: Identification of existing resource consent for same activity
    The provision for identification of existing resource consent for the same activity has been amended to replace 'consent authority' with 'regional council' and add a 10-working-day time frame
  11. 32: Sections 32A to 36 apply to land exchange
    Sections 32A to 36 now apply to land exchange, and the application of certain sections has been modified
  12. 35: Director-General of Conservation’s report on land exchange
    The Director-General of Conservation's report on land exchange has been amended to include any other person considered appropriate and to require relevant comments from local authorities or administering agencies
  13. 60: When processing of substantive application may be suspended
    The circumstances under which processing of a substantive application may be suspended have been amended, and the power to direct suspension has been transferred from the Minister to the panel convener
  14. 62: Panel convener may direct suspension in processing substantive application
    The circumstances under which processing of a substantive application may be suspended have been amended, and the power to direct suspension has been transferred from the Minister to the panel convener
  15. 63: Resumption in processing substantive application following suspension under section 62
    The circumstances under which processing of a substantive application may be suspended have been amended, and the power to direct suspension has been transferred from the Minister to the panel convener
  16. 64: Applicant may request suspension of processing substantive application
    The circumstances under which processing of a substantive application may be suspended have been amended, and the power to direct suspension has been transferred from the Minister to the panel convener
  17. 65: Resumption in processing of substantive application following suspension under section 64
    The resumption of processing a substantive application following suspension under sections 62 or 64 has been amended to allow either the panel convener or the panel to resume processing
  18. 66: Return of substantive application
    The circumstances under which processing of a substantive application may be suspended have been amended, and the power to direct suspension has been transferred from the Minister to the panel convener
  19. 81: Decisions on approvals sought in substantive application
    The panel must consider the Minister's reasons for accepting the referral application and relevant Government policy statements when deciding on approvals, and may impose conditions under new section 84A
  20. 99: Appeal against decisions only on question of law
    Appeals can now be made by any person or group that provided comments in response to an invitation given under certain sections
  21. 103: Interpretation
    The definition of 'administering agency' has been amended to include and exclude various entities
  22. 104: Cost recovery
    The cost recovery provision now requires that actual and reasonable costs be determined in accordance with regulations made under section 108
  23. 106: Methods of cost recovery
    The EPA may apply interest accruing from fees, charges, and levies to costs recoverable under section 104 or met by the imposition of a levy under section 109
  24. 108: Regulations may set fees, charges, and contributions
    Regulations may now provide for the costs that may be recovered under section 104, including setting upper limits and a dispute resolution process