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Creates a permanent “one-stop shop” to speed up approvals for building and development projects of national or regional significance, from roads and renewable energy to mining and housing. Led by Infrastructure and RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop with Regional Development and Resources Minister Shane Jones, it was a flagship growth policy of the coalition and one of its most contested.
Its journey through Parliament
Defines the debate between speeding up development and maintaining environmental safeguards, and became a flashpoint over ministerial conflicts of interest.
Backers say it removes red tape holding up infrastructure and housing. Environmental groups and opposition parties opposed it, warning it weakens environmental safeguards and public input. The scheme also drew scrutiny over ministerial conflicts of interest, including from the Office of the Auditor-General, after reporting on links between some listed projects and party donations.
National-led government; Ministers Chris Bishop (National) and Shane Jones (NZ First).
Now law. The fast-track regime is operating, with the 149 listed projects able to use it and others applying to be referred in.
“Fast-track Approvals Act 2024” is how this is talked about; Parliament is moving 2 separately-titled bills to do it. Here they are, with where each has got to.
Neutral summary, January 2026 knowledge cut-off, confirm any later changes at the official source. Politika does not take a side.
