Zoning & Development Control Frameworks
Land use zones and development guidance for defined planning areas.
01 · What this plan helps resolve
Clear development guidance helps people understand how proposed uses and built form relate to the character, infrastructure and capacity of a place. A zoning or development control commission examines both the proposed parameters and the evidence that supports them.
We review the relevant planning framework, existing conditions and the issues that the guidance needs to resolve. Outputs may address land use compatibility, intensity, access, public space or other parameters specified in the brief. Proposed controls are documented for review; they should not be presented as adopted requirements before the competent authority has acted.
02 · When to commission this service
- An authority is preparing or reviewing area-specific land use or development guidance.
- Existing controls are unclear, inconsistent or poorly related to current conditions and infrastructure.
- A planning team needs evidence and mapped proposals to support a zoning or development management workstream.
03 · Outputs for your commissioning team
- A review of applicable planning provisions, existing development patterns and issues requiring clearer guidance.
- Mapped zoning proposals and a schedule explaining the development parameters expressly included in the instruction.
- A record of evidence, stakeholder findings and implementation considerations for technical and authority review.
04 · From brief to planning package
- Review the applicable plans and existing controls
- Test proposed zones against infrastructure and local conditions
- Document the framework and required approval pathway
05 · Starting information
- Planning area and brief
- Applicable approved plans
- Existing development controls and infrastructure information
06 · Scope and responsibilities
The proposal defines the commissioned outputs, professional roles, data needs and review process. Technical, statutory and partner responsibilities are agreed before work starts.
For technical teams
Physical and Land Use Planning Act, 2019; Ministry of Lands Physical and Land Use Planning Handbook, December 2025.
Points to agree in the technical brief
- Establish the status and coverage of existing plans, zoning provisions and development permissions before proposing a revised framework.
- Agree which parameters to examine, such as use compatibility, development intensity, built form, access and infrastructure capacity.
- Separate recommended controls from adopted requirements, and define the maps, guidance and implementation responsibilities to be handed over.
07 · Common questions
Can the website give the permitted density for my plot?
The site's applicable plan, zoning position and authority information must be checked. A planning due diligence instruction is the appropriate starting point for a particular parcel.
Does a proposed zoning schedule change existing rules?
A consultant's proposal is submitted for the relevant review and approval process. Its status must be distinguished from guidance already adopted by an authority.
Is transport modelling automatically included?
No. Movement and infrastructure issues inform the scope, while detailed modelling or engineering studies are commissioned where required.
Make the next step clear
Share the location, your intended outcome and the information already available. Discuss your project →