Gaining resource consent on Waiheke Island: A starting point

Now that the Auckland Unitary Plan is all but completely implemented, the urban planning consistency across Auckland is 10/10. We have gone from a range of rules across each ward to an overarching system governing what can and cannot be done with our precious land. From checking multiple plans for a singular site to only one. And it’s a great plan at that! However, there are still some anomalies. Waiheke Island, the jewel in the crown that is the Hauraki Gulf, is one of them.

For some weird reason, Waiheke Island is not included in the Auckland Unitary Plan. If you look at the below map, the rest of Auckland is zoned in a myriad of colours, and yet the Islands of the Hauraki Gulf are a bland white. If you’re looking to build a batch on Waiheke Island or any other Gulf Island, it is likely that you’ll need a resource consent. Considering that Waiheke seems to buck all current consenting trends, this can become interesting.

Council found that Waiheke Island has been operating sufficiently under its old plan. There was no need to rezone and impose new rules and controls. From a planning perspective it means that multiple plans need to be consulted to fully understand what can and cannot be achieved when developing, altering, building or changing uses. Which is pretty similar to pre-unitary plan times. Ugh – the confusion.

While Waiheke predominately follows their own plan, there are aspects of the Unitary Plan that do apply to Waiheke Island. It is at this point that it is often wise to get in touch with Council to discuss your options. If this becomes more difficult than it should be, we’re a pretty good option for helping with these sorts of things (yes, this is shameless self-promotion).

But! Prior to any palaver with Council (or us for that matter) in order to give you a very basic starting point we have put together a list of things that need serious consideration when thinking of getting resource consent on Waiheke Island.

Resource Consents on Waiheke Island – your starting point:

#1. Servicing

There is very little public infrastructure on Waiheke Island. Most development needs a resource consent and a starting point is understanding exactly how much land is required for getting rid of wastewater.

#2. Engineering

The land on Waiheke Island is not particularly flat. Most sites will need a geo-tech report to ensure the foundations of your build can be designed to meet the conditions. You’ll also need this same expertise to ensure your driveway access and car parking is not an issue.

#3. Architecture

Islanders want quality designs so make sure you have employed the right designer who can provide a quality end product. Without this, you will not meet Council’s (or your potential neighbours) high expectations.

#4. Pre-application Meeting

Having a formal pre-application meeting with the Council is a great way to make sure any the issues effecting a site are understood and agreed upon. There is no point in going to full design if resource consent cannot be approved.

#5. Use an expert

As outlined above, the consenting process for Waiheke Island is very different to the rest of the super city. The expectations here are very different. Having someone on your side that knows this stuff inside out will significantly smooth the process.

Good luck and get in touch if you have any questions!