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 you may appeal certain decisions under the RMA to the Environment Court.
The Environment Court may order any party to pay costs to another party. This guide outlines what costs are and the things you should consider if you are considering bringing proceedings in the Environment Court. This guide can help you understand what may be involved with the potential awarding of costs.
