Jun 27, 2025
On 29 May, the coalition Government started the formal consultation process to reform national direction under the Resource Management Act (RMA).
Luka Jansen, Environmental Stewardship Manager at Deer Industry New Zealand (DINZ), is urging all deer farmers to get involved as they know best what works on the ground – and what doesn’t.
“This is your chance to speak up and help fix what’s not working,” Jansen says, aware that it’s been a hard road, and for many, still is. She adds, “Change is vital. We need to build a future where practical solutions and real-world experience lead the way.”
Formal consultation is open until 27 July 2025 and includes proposals aimed at simplifying and improving environmental regulations. For the deer industry and the wider agricultural sector, freshwater policies have long been a source of frustration.
DINZ welcomes the shift toward practical, risk-based environmental management. The current system is failing everyone – but with genuine input from those on the ground, the government can build something that works. If farmers don’t speak up now, we risk missing the opportunity to create an effective system.
Jansen adds, “New Zealand farmers are the most efficient in the world, often working within a regulatory system that offers no incentives and can feel highly inefficient. The Government would do well to listen and consider on-farm perspectives regarding what is workable and what isn't.”
Make your voice count
Submissions are open until 27 July 2025. Visit the Ministry for the Environment website to learn more and have your say.
