Temporary Law Changes to Enhance Flood Resilience in Māngere Proposed

In response to concerns about future severe weather threats, the Government proposes an Order in Council under the Severe Weather Emergency Recovery Legislation Act 2023.

The Coalition Government is introducing temporary legislative changes to facilitate flood mitigation efforts in Māngere, aiming to boost the community’s resilience against severe weather events. Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Mark Mitchell and Environment Minister Penny Simmonds announced the initiative, highlighting the impact of the 2023 Auckland Anniversary floods and Cyclone Gabrielle on local residents.

In response to concerns about future severe weather threats, the Government proposes an Order in Council under the Severe Weather Emergency Recovery Legislation Act 2023. This measure seeks to amend the Resource Management Act temporarily, streamlining the resource consenting process for critical flood resilience infrastructure, such as new culverts and dams, in the Te Ararata and Harania catchments.

Once the Auckland Council completes these improvements, around 376 properties will experience a significant reduction in flood risk, advancing from Category 2C to Category 1 under the Land Categorisation System.

Minister Mitchell emphasized the importance of these changes, noting that Auckland Council's request for legislative adjustments reflects the coalition's commitment to supporting local recovery efforts. Minister Simmonds added that traditional flood risk mitigation projects often face lengthy and complex resource consent processes, which can delay crucial work.

The proposed temporary law changes are expected to come into effect by the end of October 2024 and will remain in place until October 2028. This expedited approach will enable Auckland Council to proceed with necessary flood resilience work this summer, providing greater certainty for homeowners regarding the future safety of their properties.