National policy statements

National policy statements

National policy statements (NPS) enable central government to prescribe objectives and policies on resource management matters of national significance. These instruments are designed to help local government decide how competing national benefits and local costs should be balanced.

Guidance for councils implementing two of the new National Policy Statements is now out for: 

• Freshwater Management
• Renewable Electricity Generation

National Environmental Standards

National Environmental Standards provide the opportunity for central government to promote the adoption of consistent standards at the regional and district levels.

The following standards are in force as regulations:

• Air quality standards
• Sources of human drinking water standard
• Telecommunications facilities
• Electricity transmission
• Assessing and managing contaminants in soil to protect human health