Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Amendment Regulations 2026.

This Regulation amends the Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003 to strengthen the management of vegetation-related risks to electricity infrastructure in New Zealand. It introduces new spatial zones for tree and conductor management, updates key definitions, and requires works owners to regularly publish information on the dangers posed by trees near live conductors. The amendments establish a treefall hazard assessment and enforcement regime, including procedures for issuing hazard notices, removing high- and moderate-risk trees, recovering costs, and resolving disputes through arbitration mechanisms. The instrument also imposes planting restrictions in designated low-height planting zones, extends clearance requirements for certain low-voltage conductors, and provides transitional arrangements, including special provisions for conservation land. Enforcement measures are reinforced through offences and penalties for non-compliance, while Schedule 3 sets out detailed criteria for assessing treefall hazards.