Frequently asked questions

I just need some advice.

The good news is that we can give some guidance on environmental planning and management. Or we could direct you to another agency which is better placed to provide it. For instance, for advice on Resource Management Act matters you could call the Ministry for the Environment on 0800 RMA INFO (0800 762 4636).

Can PCE give me information about environmental laws and resource management laws?

Yes, but we do not give legal advice or legal opinions. If you need legal advice you should see a lawyer.

Can PCE give me advice about whether I have a good chance of winning my appeal to the Environment Court?

No, we do not give legal advice. We can only give information. For legal advice, see a lawyer. If you are worried about the cost, visit your community law centre or Citizens Advice Bureau. You may be eligible for a Ministry for the Environment legal assistance grant.

Can I apply for resource consent here?

Sorry, we can't help. Contact your local district, city or regional council.

I'm concerned about a resource consent not being complied with, and you're my first port of call.

First, you need to contact your local district, city or regional council, depending on what kind of consent it is. If you don't get satisfactory help after a reasonable amount of time, you could consider making a complaint to us.

Native plants are being removed from a park near my place. What can I do?

Have you told your council or the Department of Conservation? If you don't get satisfactory help after a reasonable amount of time, you could consider making a complaint to us.

Kaimoana/seafood is being poached. Who do I tell?

Have you told the Ministry of Fisheries? If you don't get satisfactory help after a reasonable amount of time, you could make a complaint to us.

My local council has raised rates to pay for a new wastewater treatment system instead of selling their airport company shares. My neighbours and I were not consulted.

If you believe your local council is not properly managing its financial resources, you should notify the Auditor-General.

The council is planning to do some work that will affect me significantly. They have decided not to notify the public of their resource consent application. What can I do?

You need to consult a resource management lawyer about your options if you want the council's decision overturned. The PCE does not have this power.

I've got a problem with noise.

Your local district or city council has powers under the Resource Management Act to investigate noise complaints. If you've already told your council but not got a satisfactory response, you could consider making a complaint to us. You need to explain why the response is unsatisfactory.