Govt outlines biggest overhaul of building consents in 21 years

Changes aimed at removing ‘system blockages’ will consolidate local authority consent functions and scrap ‘joint and several liability’ system.

Brent Melville and Nicholas Pointon Mon, 18 Aug 2025

Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says the Government is making good on reforms to the building consent framework, removing roadblocks to the country's "sluggish" consenting system.

Describing the amendments as the biggest since the Building Act came into force in 2004, Penk said the aim

Want to read more? It's easy.

Choose your subscription

Already have an account? Login

Smartphone Only Subscription

NZ$29.95 / monthly

Monthly Premium Online Subscription

NZ$49.95 / monthly

Smartphone Only Annual Subscription

NZ$299.00 / yearly

Yearly Premium Online Subscription

NZ$499.00 / yearly

Premium Group Membership 10 Users

NZ$385+GST / monthly

$38.5 per user - Pay by monthly credit card debit

Premium Group Membership 20 Users

NZ$660+GST / monthly

$33 per user - Pay by monthly credit card debit

Premium Group Membership 50 Users

NZ$1375+GST / monthly

$27.5 per user - Pay by monthly credit card debit

Premium Group Membership 100 Users

NZ$2100+GST / monthly

$21 per user - Pay by monthly credit card debit

Yearly Premium Online Subscription + NBR Marketplace

NZ$999.00 / yearly

Individual

Group membership

NBR Marketplace

Student

Exclusive FREE offer for uni students studying at a New Zealand university (valued at $499).

View terms and conditions.