4 May 2020

Coronavirus: Iwi meeting Ministers over fast-tracking consents

From Morning Report, 8:17 am on 4 May 2020

The government plans to fast-track consents for 'shovel ready', large scale building projects, sidestepping mechanisms for the community to have a stay.

The temporary changes will speed up the consenting process, and allow small panels to hear applications - with decisions expected in 25 days in most cases.

The government says while existing Treaty of Waitangi settlements will be upheld - appeal rights will be limited to points of law and judicial review.

Mike Smith from the National Iwi Chairs Forum is leading their work on the matter - he will be meeting with ministers about it later today.

He speaks to Susie Ferguson.