At its best, consultation can improve your project and the resource consent application process.
Gaining local knowledge
Consultation may reveal information on issues (including things such as local traffic or flooding conditions) or opportunities that are important to your proposal but that you might not be aware of.
Incorporating tangata whenua values and interests
Consulting early with local tangata whenua (iwi, hapū, whanau) can help you both to understand each other’s views. Consultation with tangata whenua on your proposal can result in a better application that builds positively on the knowledge and special relationship they have with the environment.
Enhanced proposals and better environmental outcomes
Consultation may provide input that will improve your project or idea and reduce its impact on the natural, physical, cultural and social environment.
Making the consent process easier
Consultation may lessen any concern, doubt or confusion people may have about your proposal (in the absence of accurate information). This can reduce potential opposition, and improve the chances of consent being non-notified and granted.
Be flexible about elements of your proposal that are likely to be of concern. Even if you cannot remove them, they may be designed or handled in a way that reduces opposition without disadvantage to your idea.
With neighbours and community
The resource consent process can sometimes be the start of your involvement with a community. Having a good relationship can enhance public relations, build an awareness of and market for your service or product, and help with a future project or an expansion to your current proposal.
With tangata whenua
The resource consent process may be the start of your relationship with tangata whenua of the area. Working with them to bring your project to fruition can improve the process and final product.
Promote any elements of your proposal that could have a benefit for, or work in with, the interests of neighbours, the community, and tangata whenua. Consider their needs. See your proposal from their perspective.
Understanding the Māori world view
Māori are tangata whenua (people of the land). Iwi, hapū and whānau have long histories with their ancestral territories, with interests that the Treaty of Waitangi agreed to protect. Environmental legislation, including the RMA, ensures many of the rights and obligations that tangata whenua have over land and water can continue to be exercised.
For tangata whenua, identity and wellbeing are closely interlinked with the natural world. All life is connected, and people are part of the natural order. The concept of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) underpins the way tangata whenua interact with the environment and manage resources in their rohe (tribal territory). Learning about these perspectives, values, and practices can result in a more considered and site appropriate proposal.
Unique to New Zealand and our national identity
Tangata whenua participation in the resource consent process is part of upholding the Treaty of Waitangi. It helps to express environmental management concepts, relationships, and methods that are unique to our country.
Helping the council assess RMA obligations
Ensure the council can see how your proposal has addressed RMA requirements relating to Māori and the Treaty of Waitangi.
Be as responsive as you can. Identify and address issues of interest to tangata whenua groups before they are raised as a concern with the council.
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Benefits of consultation
February 2021
© Ministry for the Environment