New Zealand’s new Fast-track Approvals regime officially begins today, aiming to speed up infrastructure, housing, and energy projects to boost economic growth.

Infrastructure and RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones announced the initiative, highlighting its role in cutting red tape.

“The Fast-track Approvals Act, part of the coalition agreement between National and NZ First, was signed into law just before Christmas,” Bishop said.

“The new Act helps cut through the thicket of red and green tape and the jumble of approvals processes that has, until now, held New Zealand back from much-needed economic growth.”

The regime provides a streamlined process for major projects, tackling delays that previously hindered economic expansion. The government aims to address the country’s infrastructure deficit, housing crisis, and energy shortages.

Jones said that 149 projects with significant national or regional benefits have been identified for fast-tracking. These projects span key sectors, including housing, renewable energy, transport, mining, quarrying, and the primary industries.

“The list of projects spans everything we need more of to grow our economy and provide much-needed new jobs for the regions,” Jones said.

Project owners can now submit applications through the official Fast-track website. Applications will be assessed by expert panels, facilitated by the Environmental Protection Authority.

Bishop said that before submitting applications, project owners must consult relevant agencies, iwi authorities, hapū, Treaty settlement entities, and other stakeholders. Expert panels will then determine approvals and set necessary conditions.

“Projects not listed in the Act can also apply for referral to an expert panel through the same Fast-track website from today,” Jones said.

“Their applications will first go to the Minister of Infrastructure for consideration, which includes inviting written comments from the Minister for the Environment and any other Ministers with relevant portfolios.”

The expert panels will be appointed by conveners with high-level legal and environmental expertise.

Retired Environment Court Judge Jane Borthwick has been appointed as Panel Convener, with Helen Atkins and Jennifer Caldwell as Associate Panel Conveners.

“Judge Borthwick has a wealth of experience in environmental and resource management litigation,” Bishop said. “She has worked with multiple industry stakeholders where there has been considerable public interest.”

Jones said that the associate panel conveners also bring extensive experience from both private and public sectors, ensuring robust oversight of the approval process.