Introduction
The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) is the main law protecting our environment. It's designed to ensure activities like building houses, clearing bush, moving earth, taking water from a stream or burning rubbish won't harm our neighbours and our communities, or threaten the air, water, soil and ecosystems that we and future generations need to survive.
The RMA allows you to participate in decisions that affect you. However, if you are unhappy with a decision under the RMA you can approach a number of different agencies to have your concerns addressed. This guide explains the different roles and responsibilities of those agencies, and provides information on which agency to approach for which type of concern.
