Spatial Planning Act 2023 (2023 No 47).

The Spatial Planning Act 2023 aims to create a cohesive approach to spatial planning, fostering sustainable development while respecting the rights and responsibilities of iwi and hapū in protecting the environment and by adherence to the principles of the Tiriti o Waitangi. The Act outlines the roles and responsibilities of regional planning committees, which are tasked with developing and reviewing draft strategies that guide land use and development in their regions. Public engagement is a critical aspect of the process, as the Act mandates that draft strategies and associated documents be made publicly available, with opportunities for written submissions from interested parties.The Act also outlines the relationship between regional spatial strategies and other legislative frameworks, such as the Local Government Act 2002 and the Water Services Entities Act 2022, ensuring that local authorities and water services entities align their plans and strategies with regional objectives.
The Act consists of 75 Articles divided into 3 parts as follow: Preliminary provisions (1); Regional spatial strategies (2); General powers, duties, and other matters (3). The text has 5 Schedules.