The Chatham Islands Resource Management Document (CIRMD) provides a framework for the integrated management of natural and physical resources of the islands including the sea area out to the 12 mile territorial limit.

The Council can make provision in the document for a range of matters as set out in the Resource Management Act 1991, including the control of:

  • The effects of any use of land
  • Subdivision
  • Natural hazards
  • Hazardous substances
  • Activities on the surface of the water
  • Discharge of contaminants into or onto land, air or water
  • Taking and diverting water
  • Noise
  • Activities and occupation in the Coastal Marine Area

The CIRMD is unique in the New Zealand context, containing aspects of a regional policy statement, a district plan, a coastal plan and regional plans in one document administered by the Chatham Islands Council, rather than separate plans administered by different authorities.

Download documents 

Update 21 July 2023

The Chatham Islands Council has amended its Resource Management Document to include the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPS-FM 2020) as per s55(2) of the Resource Management Act 1991. Read the public notice.

Please read the CIRMD in conjunction with the below document.