Auckland Unitary Plan hearings

The Unitary Plan Hearings Committee of Auckland Council is now well into its scheduled evidence exchange and hearings. These hearings are to consider the vast array of submissions that were received to the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan. This plan will replace all the District and City Plans that existed prior to the formation of Auckland Council, and will set out all the Rules and Controls that govern how land owners can use and develop their land.

We have been extremely busy assisting clients in preparing their evidence and rebuttal evidence and attending mediation and hearing sessions. This is a time consuming and expensive undertaking for many affected parties, but essential in order to ensure that the controls in the Unitary Plan do not undermine established or proposed landuses and developments, or adversely affect intended changes to any existing uses.

For the vast majority of landowners, the Unitary Plan is of little consequence, until such time as they need to apply for land development consents, and for many people this will never happen. It is fortunate for the vast majority that a smaller minority are closely scrutinizing these documents to ensure a fair and logical system of land controls are in place.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Unitary Plan hearings about?

The hearings review submissions to the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan, which sets rules and controls for land use and development across Auckland.

How can Birch assist landowners during these hearings?

Birch helps clients prepare evidence, rebuttals, and attends mediation and hearing sessions to ensure proposed developments comply with the Unitary Plan.

Do all landowners need to participate in the hearings?

Most landowners are unaffected unless they apply for land development consents; only those with specific submissions or developments need to be actively involved.

Why are the hearings important for future developments?

They ensure the rules are fair and logical, protecting established and proposed land uses while maintaining a consistent framework for future planning and consent approvals.