News

Kiwis can now build granny flats in their backyards without a building or resource consent. RMA Reform and Housing Minister Chris Bishop says the now-formalised, long-signalled reforms are a major step in the push for increased housing supply and greater flexibility for families. “It’s an exciting day for Kiwis across the country who have been […]

A nationwide CBS Co-op survey has found that 82% of respondents rated their local BCA as either poor or fair in terms of efficiency. 73% stated that council decisions and requirements were highly inconsistent between inspectors or regions. “Our members are telling us that delays, inconsistency, and a lack of accountability within the consenting system […]

The Insurance and Financial Services Ombudsman Scheme (IFSO Scheme) is urging consumers to make honest and accurate claims for flood damage, amid growing concern from New Zealanders about the rising impact of natural hazards on insurance affordability and accessibility. Based on responses from more than 1,000 people, 67% of respondents believe natural hazards affect their […]

Approximately 7% of New Zealanders live in flood-prone areas, threatening our road network, urban centres, and national grid sites, according to new research by Earth Sciences New Zealand. More than 750,000 New Zealanders live in locations exposed to flooding from one-in-100-year rainfall events, and the public research institute warns this number could increase to over […]

The release of the draft National Infrastructure Plan marks a pivotal moment for New Zealand’s infrastructure sector, offering what Infrastructure New Zealand chief executive Nick Leggett describes as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to reset the country’s approach to infrastructure planning, delivery, and asset management. “We’ve been given a clear-eyed look at the long-term challenges facing our […]

Arson crime is on the rise. A fire was deliberately lit at a Hibiscus Coast café over Halloween weekend. It’s the latest in a series of attempted arson on Ōrewa businesses. “I want the community to know that these attacks on local businesses won’t be tolerated and we are working hard to hold those responsible […]