Connections

A high-profile developer has had its application for summary judgment declined by the High Court. The developer sought summary judgment against Christchurch City Council (CCC) in respect of two fire design related defects that it said had caused significant loss.  The developer argued that the council had negligently processed and issued the building consent and…

As local councils across New Zealand carry out their statutory duties under the Building Act 2004, a growing challenge has emerged in the form of “sovereign citizens.” These individuals typically attempt to deny the legitimacy of government authority and may attempt to frustrate compliance processes—including by refusing entry to property, rejecting compliance action, or disputing…

In local government there is always a focus on optimising assets; particularly land, which is often the most financially and strategically significant asset held.  However, sometimes the significance of the asset is not fully reflected in the processes and documents used when dealing with it; although a challenge not unique to local government.  A prime…

Natural hazards are a topical issue, and big changes are on the horizon for how hazard information is communicated in Land Information Memoranda (LIMs). From 1 July 2025, the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Amendment Act 2023 (LGOIMA) will come into force, introducing changes to the LIM provisions that are specifically tailored to the…

In a move designed to improve efficiency and reduce delays in construction projects nationwide, the government has announced a significant new requirement for Building Consent Authorities (BCAs).  Intended to commence from late 2025, BCAs will be required to complete 80 percent of building inspections within three working days of the request. The Government aims to…

Recent announcements by the Minister for Housing and Infrastructure, Chris Bishop, could mark a significant shift in New Zealand’s approach to infrastructure funding and financing. Through improvements in the way infrastructure costs are managed and distributed, the Government aims to create a more sustainable and responsive funding model aimed at addressing the ongoing housing crisis.…

30 years on – What does the 2025 revamp of the Solicitor-General Prosecution Guidelines mean for local authorities? Overview The Solicitor-General Prosecution Guidelines are fundamental in shaping Aotearoa’s criminal justice system, and they have recently been updated following the most comprehensive review in over 30 years. While the definition of “prosecuting agency” excludes local authorities,…

For those who have been involved in the process of valuing a reserve, whether for disposal or exchange, you will appreciate the challenge often faced.  How do you value a reserve, whether it be open space for passive recreation or developed with a playground or sports field, that services the community and has been set…

Court rejects ‘total absence of fault’ defence following serious injury to young child Background The defendant’s dog, a male American Pitbull-cross, attacked a young child visiting her property.  The victim suffered serious injuries, including wounds around her eye from a dog bite to the face.  The defendant was charged under s 58 of the Dog…

Court rules against developer in resource consent fee dispute – and rejects negligence and breach of contract arguments Judge K G Davenport KC has sided with Tauranga City Council (TCC), granting summary judgment for $15,387.45 in unpaid resource consent fees and striking out the developer’s counterclaims against TCC for negligence, contract, and legitimate expectation. The…