Understanding the Resource Management Act 1991
The Resource Management Act 1991 (the 'RMA') is important to everyone – including whanau, hapu and iwi Maori. This guide should help you to understand:
- what the various parts of the RMA mean
- how the RMA may impact on you
- when and how to use the RMA
- the advantages of using particular processes and tools in the RMA
- why it may be important to take part in resource management processes and decision–making.
In the past, iwi Maori have had little or no involvement in the management of their resources. But the RMA tries to provide for:
- Maori values and environmental practices (see Principles of the RMA)
- Maori participation in resource management decision making (see Processes of the RMA and Tools for greater Maori participation)
- situations where Maori could be involved in controlling the management and use of resources (see Tools for greater Maori participation).
