Improving how the Development Contributions Policy works

The council is seeking feedback on proposed minor changes to its Utu Whakawhanake Development Contributions Policy 2025.

The proposed amendments would make it easier and more efficient for the council to review disputed development contribution charges, improve how development contribution credits are applied, and correct minor drafting issues within the policy. 

Because this involves amending a council policy, public consultation is required before a final decision can be made.

Here’s what we are proposing | Anei tā mātou e whakatakoto nei

The proposed amendments would:

• replace the current reconsideration process with a delegated officer panel process that can meet the statutory 15 working day timeframe
• clarify how credits apply where a section 224(c) certificate under the Resource Management Act 1991 was issued before 1 July 2026, but title registration is delayed
• correct minor typos, grammar, formatting, and cross-referencing errors so the policy reads as one coherent framework

The proposed amendments would not change:

• the underlying development contribution charging methodology
• the core approach to when development contributions apply
• the right to request a reconsideration or objection

Feedback that raises issues outside the scope of this consultation may be noted but will not be considered as part of this decision.

You can view the proposed amendments in the consultation document here. A copy of the draft policy is also available to review. Further information about the proposed changes can be found in the supporting report.

How can I have a say? | E whai wāhi ai koe ki ngā kōrero?

• Online submission: Visit the online survey here to have your say
• Email: Send your feedback to submissions@fndc.govt.nz
• In person: Drop off a written submission at any FNDC service centre or library. Please include your name, address and contact details – our friendly customer service team will scan and forward it for you
• By mail: Far North District Council, Private Bag 752, Kaikohe 0440.

Alternatively, you can request to share your feedback verbally by emailing us at submissions@fndc.govt.nz or by phone on 0800 920 029.

Feedback is open until Monday 8 June 2026 – we’d love to hear from you!

Note: Anyone is invited to submit feedback on this consultation, whether as an individual or on behalf of an organisation, however, any submissions that are out of scope, offensive, inappropriate, or late may not be accepted by the council. You will be notified if your decision is not accepted and, where appropriate, invited to resubmit. Any submissions that are made will become part of the public consultation process. The collection and use of personal information by the Far North District Council is regulated by the Privacy Act 2020.

Please note that your submission or a summary of your submission will be treated as public information and may be published on the council's website and made available to elected members and members of the public as part of the consultation process. Your name and contact details (address, phone number, email) will only be used for administrative purposes - such as the council contacting you to update you on the outcome of this consultation and letting you know about future consultations.