PCE Analysis of the Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill

^{Sawpit Gully, Queenstown Lakes. Image source: Rebecca Thornley}

The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment (PCE) was appointed as an independent adviser to the Environment Committee on 18 December 2025 to assist with its consideration of the Planning and Natural Environment Bills.

The Commissioner provided the Committee with preliminary questions and advice, responses to the Departmental Report, and an adviser’s report. Following the Committee’s report back to the House, the Commissioner has also written to all Members of Parliament. 

Read the Commissioner's Note to MPs.

Read the preliminary questions the Commissioner provided to the Environment Select Committee. 

Read the PCE response to the Departmental Reports, Reports 1–3 and Report 4.

Read the PCE Independent Advisers Report: Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill.