WHAKAMĀHERE

PLANNING & CONSENTS

Practical planning advice that helps projects move forward.

Navigate planning rules with confidence. BTW’s planning consultants provide trusted planning services to private, commercial and infrastructure projects across Aotearoa New Zealand, from due diligence and feasibility studies to iwi engagement, urban development and resource consents. We help clients understand planning requirements, manage risk, and move projects forward with confidence — even in a changing legislative environment.

With multidisciplinary inputs, we help your project secure smoother approvals and long-term community support.

Why choose this service

Smoother approvals: Clear strategy and well‑prepared applications that address effects up‑front.
Future‑ready development: Master planning aligned with infrastructure capacity, environmental limits and community aspirations.
Respectful engagement: Trusted processes with iwi, hapū and stakeholders reflecting te ao Māori values and proven stakeholder consultation.
Nationwide experience with local understanding: Regional knowledge with the ability to deliver consistently across councils, including specialist support for council planning services and the energy sector professional services.
Integrated support: BTW’s multidisciplinary approach combines planning, surveying, engineering and environmental expertise to keep projects moving.

SUB-SERVICES / APPLICATIONS

Feasibility and Due Diligence Assessments
Resource Consent Applications and Assessments of Environmental Effects (AEE)
Master Planning and Urban Development, delivered by experienced town planning consultants
Iwi Engagement and Partnership Planning
Policy Planning and Submissions with specialist policy consultants

Learn about our planning services on their dedicated pages (See the menu above).
Discover our recent projects, and check out the FAQs below.

RMA Reform – what this means for you

Planning rules in New Zealand are changing. While the Resource Management Act (RMA) is being replaced, many projects will continue under existing or transitional pathways for some time. Others will move into new planning and consenting frameworks as they are introduced.

What doesn’t change is the need for clear, practical advice. We help clients understand what applies to their project, what’s changing, and how to move forward with confidence, without unnecessary complexity.

Planning – Your questions answered

What is a resource consent?

A resource consent is a formal approval under New Zealand’s planning framework for activities not permitted by plan rules, such as land use, subdivision or discharges. BTW’s planners and resource consents consultants prepare Assessments of Environmental Effects (AEE), coordinate technical evidence, and manage the process with councils.

How long does a consent take?

Timeframes depend on activity status, information needs, submissions and hearings. Non-notified consents may be processed in weeks, while notified consents take longer. We set clear expectations early, so you know what to expect.

Do you provide planning support nationwide?

Yes. Our planning consultants operate across New Zealand, supported by BTW’s survey, engineering and environmental teams for a seamless service.

How do you approach iwi engagement?

With respect, early kōrero and partnership. We work alongside mana whenua so projects reflect community values and kaitiakitanga.

Can BTW lead multi‑disciplinary inputs?

Yes. On larger projects we assemble and lead integrated teams (including ecology, engineering and surveying), so your application is complete, compelling and ready for decision-makers.