Building and Planning

If you are planning to build something new, make changes to an existing structure or do something with your land that may impact on the environment, there are guidelines you need to adhere to and consents you need to obtain.

We can advise you on working within New Zealand's building and resource management legislation. We also process building, resource and subdivision consents. Depending on your project you may need one, two or all three.

Council is also responsible for the water supply, management of waste and roads and footpaths in your area.

For further information on these services please phone us on 07 306 9009. 

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A Land Information Memorandum (LIM) is a comprehensive report containing everything the Council knows about a particular property or section.

A PIM provides information about land and the requirements of other Acts that might be relevant to proposed building work. We will issue a PIM following an application by the owner.

Beginning 1 March 2012, Restricted Building Work came into effect. This applies to most residential building or renovation work, and only a Licensed Building Practitioner can undertake or supervise the work.

If you’re planning a new building or an alterations project, you may need a building consent.

The Engineering Code of Practice sets out the engineering standards and guidelines that apply for building and construction in the Kawerau District.

The Council ensures that development of the District is within the Resource Management Act 1991 and the policies of the District Plan through regulatory consents.

Kawerau District Council does not require Development Contribution Fees as the District’s infrastructure is adequate for the foreseeable needs of the community.

If you want to subdivide a property in the Kawerau District, you’ll need to get subdivision consent.

Fencing is often the subject of dispute between adjoining property owners. The Fencing Act sets out everybody’s rights and obligations and should be referred to before taking any action.

Before you relocate a building for residential use in the Kawerau District, the Council needs a report from suitably qualified person that confirms it’s fit for moving and has been previously used as a residence. 

A new national system for managing earthquake-prone buildings in New Zealand came into effect on 1 July 2017. The new system affects owners of earthquake-prone buildings, territorial authorities (local councils), engineers, other building professionals and building users.

For information on:

Did you know your responsibilities as a pool owner have changed? Pool Safety Barriers are now regulated by Section 162 (A to E) of the Building Act 2004 and the new Building Code F9, which took effect from 1 January 2017.