Functions & powers

Many of us may not be aware of the RMA functions of the regional councils and district councils, let alone the differences between both systems.

January 30, 2016

Regional councils

Much of the task of managing NZ's environment has been given to the Regional Councils under the Resource Management Act. There are 16 regional councils in New Zealand including unitary authorities, 9 in the North Island and 7 in the South Island.

January 30, 2016

District & City Councils

Under the RMA district and city councils control land use and development including subdivisions. District & city councils provide essential services such as waste and wastewater collection, water supply, local roading, building controls under other Acts.

January 30, 2016

Government Ministers

Minister for the Environment holds central powers to monitor the effectiveness of the Resource Management Act (RMA) and performance of the councils and to provide national directions. In addition to the Minister for the Environment other Ministers also have powers under the RMA, particulalry with regard to coastal activities.

January 30, 2016

Governor General

Environmental regulations and regulative changes are administered by the Ministry for the Environment and legal effects are given by the Governor General. Much of regulations are related to the National Environmental Standards and aquacultural activities.