Reforming Building Consents & Seismic Regulations

Following on from Friday’s event on unlocking Auckland’s potential, today we’re taking a closer look at the key insights shared at our event last week with our speakers Hon Chris Penk MP, Mayor Wayne Brown and Hon Steven Joyce. Together we discussed ways to make the building and construction system more efficient, cutting unnecessary delays while maintaining quality and safety.

A Risk-Based Consenting System

The introduction of a risk-based consenting system which acknowledges that not all building projects pose the same level of complexity or risk will be key. Under this model, developers and builders with a proven track record, strong financial position, and appropriate insurance could self-certify their work, reducing delays and costs. This approach, which already applies to certain trades like electricians, would allow experienced industry professionals to operate with greater autonomy while freeing up regulatory resources to focus on higher-risk projects.

Rethinking Liability & The Role of Councils

Beyond making the consent process more efficient, liability settings are also under review. At present, local councils bear significant financial risk under the joint and several liability framework, often making them overly cautious in approving projects. Our speakers discussed the possibility of changes that would shift the responsibility away from local councils, ensuring greater consistency in approvals and reducing risk for ratepayers. Councils could still have a role in the process, potentially providing services on a contractual basis, but without being solely liable for building defects.

Seismic Regulations & a More Proportionate Approach

As regards seismic regulations, our speakers acknowledged the progress made since the Canterbury earthquakes but pointed to challenges in balancing safety with economic viability. While some buildings have been successfully strengthened, others remain at risk of being abandoned or demolished due to high compliance costs. A key concern is that the current New Building Standard (NBS) rating system can create the perception that anything below 100% is unsafe, leading to unintended consequences for owners of older buildings. As part of the review, a more regionally tailored approach should be considered, particularly for areas like Auckland, where seismic risk is lower than in other parts of the country.

Public Works Act Reform

Turning to infrastructure, the conversation addressed Public Works Act reform and the need for a more efficient land acquisition process. The aim is to streamline compensation frameworks, minimise delays for landowners, and fast-track the delivery of essential public projects like transport networks and flood protection.

These reforms reflect a broader shift toward a more enabling regulatory environment, one that removes unnecessary barriers while maintaining appropriate safeguards. Auckland and the rest of the country cannot afford to remain stuck in a cycle of delays, risk aversion, and over-regulation. A more efficient, proportionate, and pragmatic approach is needed to ensure New Zealand can build with both speed and confidence.