A new study examines how tradable rights in regulated markets derive value not just from immediate use, but from the strategic flexibility they provide firms over time. Using New Zealand's quota fisheries as a case study, researchers demonstrate that rights with longer tenure command premium prices by allowing firms to optimize harvest decisions based on market conditions.

Amendments have been gazetted that will have implications for how local authorities recognise the NES in their plans.

This newsletter summarises recent developments in law relating to resource management and local government in New Zealand that may be of interest to local authorities and decision makers.

The ministry and primary sector leaders have released discussion papers and policies dealing with agricultural emissions.

The new law viz. the Zero Carbon Law 2019 provides the framework for New Zealand Government to formulate and implement climate change policies as per the Paris Agreement.

Under the ETS, forest owners may have obligations to account for ETUs if they deforest their land or change land uses.

Forestry related activities will soon need to comply with new national standards.

Environment Canterbury has released the Council's decision on the proposed Canterbury Land and Water Regional Plan (LWRP).

The third round of Resource Management Act amendments, which included an overhaul of core principles, is now on hold.

The report addresses how best to balance landscape and biodiversity values with needs of land owners and communities.

In May this year it was announced that New Zealand would aim for an emissions trading scheme as a priced-based measure to address climate change.

On April 12, 2021, the New Zealand government introduced an omnibus bill into parliament.

Ground Cover tracks legislative and regulatory reform in resource management, local government and planning law.

Further streamlining of the resource management regime and a new process for the Auckland Unitary Plan were introduced.

Businesses seeking to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers must ensure their claims can be substantiated.

RMA to be replaced with the Natural & Built Environments Act, the Strategic Planning Act & the Climate Adaptation Act.

These standards will resolve differences in planning rules implemented by regional councils and territorial authorities.

The government has extended consultation timeframes for various national regulations and policy documents currently open.

NZ will be the first country to introduce a nationwide standard for biofouling, to prevent pests entering from overseas.

New provisions of plan change 18 which deal with indigenous biodiversity impact most land uses in the Mackenzie District.