RMA proposals
Proposals of national significance require thorough consideration. We receive the application, support the inquiry process and announce the Board's decision.
About Resource Management
Big infrastructure plans or public works, such as major new roads and wind farms, are examples of projects that may be nationally significant proposals.
What is national significance?
The Minister for the Environment may direct a matter to a board of inquiry or the Environment Court if it's, or is part of, a proposal of national significance.
Legislation
The EPA was established under the Environmental Protection Authority Act 2011.
Boards of inquiry
If a matter is referred to a board of inquiry, the Minister for the Environment will appoint an independent board to consider it.
Plan change process
You can apply to us for a change to a regional or district plan. A council cannot apply directly to us, but can request that the Minister for the Environment ca...
How we work with councils
Councils play an important role in the nationally significant proposal process.
Resource management guides
We've developed some information sheets to explain the resource management process, how you make an application, how you have your say, and what happens at a he...
Making an application
Find out what you need to do to make an application under the Resource Management Act.
Previous Nationally Significant Proposals
This is a directory of previous Nationally Significant Proposal applications.