Consent delays ease as councils lift their game

New Zealand's building consent system is showing signs of improved efficiency, according to recent data released by the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE).

In the first quarter of 2025, 92.7% of building consent applications and 96.8% of code compliance certificates were processed within the statutory 20-working-day timeframe. This marks an improvement from 88.0% and 93.6%, respectively, when reporting began in early 2024. 

Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk attributed these gains to increased transparency and accountability. 

“The decision to put performance in the spotlight is paying off, and I wish to acknowledge councils who have moved quickly to expedite consenting processes,” he said. 

In the first three months of 2025, a total of 31,845 building consent applications, amendments and code compliance certificates were processed – nearly 1,000 more than during the same period last year. This uptick suggests that the system is not only processing applications more efficiently but also handling a higher volume of work. 

The Government is also introducing reforms aimed at further streamlining the consent process. 

These include legislation to allow trusted building professionals to self-certify their work, potentially reducing the number of applications requiring council approval. Additionally, a mandatory target is being set for Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) to conduct 80% of building inspections within three working days, helping councils prioritise workloads more effectively. 

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