21 August 2025
Progressing the Urban Plan change and seeking an exemption under the Government’s new plan stop legislation was endorsed at the Council meeting today.
The plan change is part of the broader Tairāwhiti Resource Management Plan review and was guided by Council’s Future Development Strategy 2024-2054, which identifies where we can build and the infrastructure needed to enable housing and economic development sustainably.
“The Urban Plan Change is about shaping the future of our urban area in a way that balances growth with resilience and environmental protection” says Jocelyne Allen, Director of Sustainable Futures.
A report recommending public notification was presented to the Tairāwhiti Resource Management Plan Committee on Wednesday 13 August, where members supported progressing the Urban Plan Change and seeking an exemption. Today the full Council endorsed that recommendation, confirming it will apply for an exemption so the plan change can continue and, if granted, proceed to public notification next year.
The Government has announced that the plan stop legislation is now law and takes effect today. Councils have 90 working days to apply for exemptions and Council is committed to applying within this timeframe.
“It’s important to recognise the work that’s already gone into shaping the plan. Our communities, treaty partners and stakeholders have been integral contributors and their input remains at the heart of what we’re proposing. While this pause at the national level brings uncertainty, we are committed to progressing what matters locally.”
Council will keep the community updated on the outcome of the exemption process.
We encourage everyone to stay engaged so follow our Participate engagement platform, sign up for Council’s He Pānui and follow national updates through the Ministry for the Environment’s newsletter as the wider reforms take shape.
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