Five ways to add real value to your rural subdivision
September 2025
Rural subdivision can unlock retirement funds, reduce debt, or support family succession. From site assessment to smart design, timing, and navigating evolving planning rules, these five steps help landowners understand how to create lasting value for their rural land.
Auckland Council to Replace Plan Change 78 – What It Means for Developers
August 2025
On 21 August 2025, Auckland Council will consider draft changes to the Unitary Plan replacing Plan Change 78 — strengthening hazard protections and potentially boosting housing capacity from 900k to 2M homes. Learn what this means for developers and landowners.
Proposed Removal of Land Use Capability Class 3 – What It Means for Rural Landowners
July 2025
If you own Land Use Capability (LUC) Class 3 land, changes may be on the way. The Government is proposing to remove LUC 3 restrictions under the National Policy Statement for Highly Productive Land (NPS-HPL). Now’s a good time to understand what’s being considered.
Going for Housing Growth – Open for Feedback
July 2025
The Government’s Going for Housing Growth discussion document, released on 18 June 2025, proposes major planning changes to address New Zealand’s housing shortage. Public submissions are open until 17 August 2025.
Planning & Infrastructure Update: Watercare Capacity and Plan Change 78
June 2025
Two recent updates from Watercare and central government are set to influence how and where growth can occur across Auckland. These changes affect both infrastructure planning and urban development zoning.
Auckland Council Adopts New Development Contributions
June 2025
Auckland Council has adopted a revised Development Contributions Policy effective 1 July 2025. The final policy sets lower rates than initially proposed, easing cost pressures for developers and helping support better housing affordability across the region.
Granny Flats: What the Proposed 2026 Rules Will Enable – and What They Won’t
May 2025
From early 2026, the proposed new rules will allow minor dwelling units (granny flats) of up to 70m² to be built on most residential and rural-zoned sites without the need for building or resource consents. Learn more about what is expected to be permitted under the new regulations.
Celebrating Two New Associates at Cato Bolam: Joshua Wium and Kaaren Joubert
April 2025
Cato Bolam is proud to announce the promotion of Joshua Wium and Kaaren Joubert to Associates. Learn more about their expertise and contributions to our multi-disciplinary team.
Making Sense of the RMA Reform
April 2025
The Government’s proposed Resource Management Act (RMA) reform aims to simplify land use regulation, strengthen property rights, and tighten environmental protections. With significant changes on the horizon, now is the time to understand how the proposed system could impact your projects.
The Value of Biodiversity: A Guide for Rural Landowners
April 2025
If your rural property includes native bush or wetlands that support threatened species, it may qualify as a Significant Ecological Area (SEA). This could create opportunities for an Environmental Enhancement Subdivision—restoring important habitats while adding value to your land.
