FAQs

Question 1

Do I need a town planner for a minor renovation in the Central North Island?

Accepted Answer

If your project complies with the district plan’s permitted activity rules, you may be able to proceed without a planner. However, any works breaching height, setback or coverage standards typically require resource consent. A short consultation with a planner can confirm your obligations and prevent inadvertent non-compliance.

Question 2

How long does the resource consent process take?

Accepted Answer

Unnotified consents are usually processed within 20 working days, provided the application is complete. If council requests further information (a Section 92), the clock stops until responses are supplied. Notified or limited-notified applications can extend to several months, including public submission periods and hearings.

Question 3

What documents will my planner prepare?

Accepted Answer

Expect an Assessment of Environmental Effects, certificate of title, site plans, locality plans and input from specialists such as traffic or acoustic engineers. Your planner compiles these into the formal resource consent application and manages all lodgement requirements.

Question 4

Can a planner help reduce development contributions or levies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Experienced planners can negotiate staging, argue for credit allowances and demonstrate lower infrastructure impacts, all of which may reduce council contributions. Success depends on robust evidence and early engagement.

Question 5

How do I compare quotes between different town planners?

Accepted Answer

Review scope inclusions, hourly rates versus fixed fees, expected disbursements and any allowance for hearings. Use ArchiPro’s project brief tool to supply the same information to each planner, making their proposals directly comparable.

Town Planners – Central North Island

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