Gisborne District Council has reached a major milestone with the introduction of new standard forestry consent conditions, developed after more than a year of collaboration and consultation with industry stakeholders.

The new conditions, which respond directly to the Ministerial Inquiry into Land Use, represent a significant step forward in advancing sustainable land management in the region.

Council Chief Executive Nedine Thatcher Swann says the conditions strike a careful balance between enabling the forestry sector and protecting the environment.

“These conditions are an important step toward providing certainty to the forestry sector and meeting our environmental obligations.”

“This marks a key moment in our commitment to a more sustainable future for Tairāwhiti.”

The conditions represent Council’s interim position and will guide decision making on forestry resource consent applications on a case-to-case basis.

They form part of a wider programme of work, with Council continuing to develop a more integrated and holistic approach through its forestry plan change.

Council will also remain responsive to emerging scientific data and insights, ensuring our approach continues to evolve in line with the latest environmental research and best practice.

Ms Thatcher Swann acknowledged the constructive partnership with the forestry sector in shaping the new conditions.

“Both Council and the forestry industry have dedicated significant time and effort to develop these new consent conditions.”

“This collaboration has resulted in meaningful progress toward finding common ground and setting a clear path forward.”

While some differing views remain, Council is confident that these new consent conditions provide a solid foundation for ongoing collaboration.

“Our goal is to continue improving and working together to achieve the best possible outcomes for both the environment and the local economy,” concluded Ms Thatcher Swann.

To view the new forestry consent conditions, visit gdc.govt.nz.

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