RMA reforms gather pace

Reform of the Resource Management Act (RMA) is increasing in pace, with the Ministry for the Environment holding online information sessions this month.  Register here. 

HortNZ, supported by several product groups, made a submission earlier in the reform process in August. 

At that time, we said that the legislation that replaces the RMA must ensure that New Zealand can sustainably grow fresh, healthy food for domestic consumption.

‘Access to healthy food, freshwater and housing are essential to health and wellbeing. These matters need to be planned together, and require national direction,’ said HortNZ Environment Manager, Michelle Sands.

‘The issue is that the places that are best for growing food are also attractive for housing. The national direction proposed in the new legislation will seek to resolve conflicts like these. New Zealanders can have healthy food and housing, but it needs good forward planning and strong direction.’