12 | Northland: Northland Planning & Development T T Karen Phelps Staying up to speed with changing rules Property owners and developers in Northland are facing a complex web of new regulations and opportunities. “As we are locals, this gives us good knowledge of what will and won’t work in the region in terms of the District Plan.” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Northland is experiencing a period of significant change with modifications to legislation occurring at both district and national levels meaning that property owners and developers are facing a complex web of new regulations and opportunities, says Rochelle Jacobs, co-owner of Northland Planning & Development. “It’s crucial for people to understand these changes and how they might affect their current and future projects,” she says. One of the most significant changes on the horizon is the proposed Far North District Plan that will reshape the rules for future development in the region. Northland Planning & Development has been actively involved in this process, making submissions on behalf of numerous clients. “It’s setting the scene for the rules for future development, so it’s an important role we are playing on behalf of our clients,” Rochelle explains. “We have also made submissions on more generalised issues for the greater good of the community.” The company’s local roots give it a unique advantage in this process. “As we are locals, this gives us good knowledge of what will and won’t work in the region in terms of the District Plan. This local insight has allowed Northland Planning & Development to identify potential issues that might not be immediately apparent to others. Another area where Northland Planning & Development has been particularly active is in helping clients navigate the changing landscape for properties zoned Rural Production or Coastal Living. “In the proposed District Plan, people will no longer be able to subdivide as they are able to now. For example, in the Rural Production zone subdivision rights for older titles enable the creation of either 4000m2 or 2ha sites with relative ease. It is proposed in the new plan that the minimum size be increased to 8ha and the activity status be changed to give Council full discretion over conditions. Similarly in the Coastal Living zone as a discretionary activity you can create sites of 5000m2. It is proposed that this be increased to 2ha.” This impending change has led to a flurry of activity, with Northland Planning & Development busy applying for consents to secure rights for clients before the new regulations come into effect. The changes aren’t limited to the district level. Rochelle also highlights modifications happening at the national level, particularly regarding minor residential units. “Currently in the Far North District, only the Rural Production zone allows for them, and you require consent. The government is looking to make the activity permitted meaning that no resource consent will be required so long as you meet the performance standards.” Rochelle sees this as a positive change, potentially opening up more options for rental accommodations, extended family living arrangements, or housing for elderly parents. The company’s approach to navigating these changes is deeply rooted in its local knowledge and experience. Both Rochelle and her business partner, Sheryl Hansford grew up in Northland so they are intimately acquainted with its unique nature and the people who live there. Rochelle says this means that they not only have good relationships with council but also with the local community. They bring a sound understanding of the various types of land in Northland – coastal, rural and urban. They also both have extensive backgrounds in local government and planning. This insider knowledge allows them to anticipate potential hurdles and streamline the consent process for their clients. “We know intimately what Councils require when it comes to resource consents and resource management. This means less delays and hold-ups for our clients.” As Northland continues to grow and develop Rochelle says the role of companies like Northland Planning & Development becomes increasingly crucial to guide people through the complex and ever-changing landscape of planning regulations. With offices in Kaitaia and Kerikeri, Northland Planning & Development can assist clients Northland-wide. Building and Engineering Setout
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