Democracy Action supports the broad intent of the Planning Bill to simplify the resource management system, reduce red tape, empower landowners, and provide greater certainty. New Zealand needs a more efficient planning framework that supports growth while managing environmental effects and natural hazards. Continue reading

We support the broad objectives of the Natural Environment Bill to create a more efficient, certain, and outcomes-focused system for managing New Zealand’s natural resources. Replacing the complex Resource Management Act is long overdue. Continue reading

The proposed changes promote unequal influence and a much weaker public voice The government has introduced two bills designed to replace the RMA by separating land-use planning from natural resource management: Continue reading

The Government’s proposal to "Simplify Local Government" represents a significant restructuring of New Zealand's local government system, primarily by eliminating regional councillors and replacing them with a Combined Territories Board (CTB) composed of mayors from city and district councils. Continue reading

Read more posted on the Democracy Action Facebook page Geoff Parker: He Puapua - Already in Motion Evidence shows He Puapua is already in practice — quietly embedding ancestry-based distinctions across New Zealand’s institutions. READ MORE   Continue reading

Key Points: Customary catch data is withheld from the public. Though reporting is legally required, Fisheries NZ (FNZ) says it cannot release this information. FNZ will not verify whether mandatory reporting is occurring, whether national totals are complete, or whether the data used in management decisions is accurate. This leaves a gap in fisheries management. All other sectors’ catch data is public—customary catch is the only exception. Continue reading

Biggest overhaul of NZ local government in over 30 years. Regional councils will be abolished and replaced with new governing bodies. Continue reading

See more posted on the Democracy Action Facebook page Continue reading

The Amendment Bill restores Parliament’s original intent behind the 2011 MACA Act. It responds to recent court rulings (notably the Whakatōhea/Edwards decisions) that lowered the threshold for Customary Marine Title (CMT), allowing more claims than intended. The legislation aims to provide clarity and certainty for claims. Continue reading

The Gene Technology Bill, due for its second reading, is sparking significant public concern. Despite 15,000 submissions—with 97% opposing the Bill—the Select Committee has recommended it proceed, with only minor amendments. Continue reading