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Environmental law in Tauranga, New Zealand, provides the legal framework to ensure the preservation, conservation, and sustainable use of our environment. This branch of law focuses on a variety of issues affecting the environment such as air and water quality, wildlife conservation, waste management, and preservation of natural resources like forests, soil, and minerals. As Tauranga is part of the Bay of Plenty region and an important coastal city, environmental law also covers matters like coastal and marine conservation, fisheries, pollution and marine biodiversity.
Individuals or entities may require the expertise of an environmental lawyer under various circumstances, including:
The region's local body, the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, alongside central government environmental legislation, regulate environmental laws in Tauranga. Key legislation includes the Resource Management Act (1991), which focuses on promoting sustainable management of natural and physical resources and contains key provisions related to land use and zoning. The Conservation Act (1987) and Wildlife Act (1953) are also significant, emphasizing on the conservation of native flora and fauna in New Zealand. The Biosecurity Act (1993) deals with preventing and managing risks of harmful organisms (pests and diseases) to the environment.
Environmental law violations could consist of illegal dumping or improper disposal of waste, non-compliance with pollution standards, unauthorized land development, or causing harm to protected wildlife and habitats.
Penalties for breaking environmental law may range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offence. Businesses may also face court injunctions, operating restrictions or clean-up orders.
Yes, planning decisions made by the local council or the environment court can be appealed, but need to be done within a specific timeframe. You should seek legal advice for the process and documentation required.
Yes, large-scale commercial or infrastructure projects may require an environmental impact assessment under the Resource Management Act to ascertain potential environmental impacts and ensure compliance with the Act.
Yes, activities that could potentially harm the environment or breach environmental standards often require approval from the relevant local or national body. Examples include land-use changes, discharge of contaminants, or use of natural resources.
Relevant resources include the Ministry for the Environment, the Department of Conservation, local iwi environmental groups, and the Environmental Protection Authority. It is also valuable to keep informed through the websites and publications of these bodies, as well as legislation.govt.nz for the latest in legislation changes.
If you need legal assistance with environmental matters, the first step is to seek legal advice. Look for a lawyer specializing in environmental law. If your case involves a court proceeding, consider your representation options carefully. You can represent yourself, have a lawyer represent you, or have another person (like a community law advocate) represent you. You can also request the legal aid if you cannot afford a lawyer.
