Assessing the decision-making process during the transitional time period of renewing consents under the Resource Management Act: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Planning at Lincoln University

Abstract

Planning in the coastal marine area for aquaculture has had a turbulent history within New Zealand, reflecting the aquaculture industry’s need for business security and certainty in the occupation of public water space while also balancing the protection of the coastal environment and rights of other users. A major obstacle looming in the near feature for the aquaculture industry is the 602 marine farms whose consents are set to expire at the end of 2024 and most, if not all, are expected to apply for replacement consents to continue their business. Replacement consents are not automatic, and this means 62% of the marine farming industry is facing a degree of uncertainty as to the future. The recent release of the cabinet policy directing drafting of the proposed National Environmental Standard for Marine Aquaculture seeks to address this by setting out a national baseline for the renewal of marine farm consents to ensure that there is greater certainty for marine farmers when it comes time to replace their consents. With a focus on replacement of marine farm consents, my research identifies the key issues surrounding marine farm planning in New Zealand. Through the use of semi-structured interviews, the research explores the current perceptions and views on the replacement of marine farm consents of industry experts and marine farmers. I compare the findings of the industry experts and marine farmers to help determine whether the National Environmental Standard addresses the concerns of the industry and improves the security and certainty of occupation while producing better environmental outcomes.