Far North development contributions set to start for new builds

From May 29, development contributions will apply to some new developments across the district.

With a key cut-off date less than a year away, Far North property owners planning new developments are being advised to get familiar with upcoming changes to development contributions.

A new council policy coming into force next year could affect what you pay, depending on where and when you apply.

From May 29, development contributions will apply to some new developments across the district.

The Far North District Council said these charges will help fund the roads, water, stormwater, and wastewater infrastructure needed to support growth in the district and ensure the cost is shared more fairly, rather than falling only to existing ratepayers.

“Whether development contributions apply depends on what you’re doing, when you apply, and where your property is located. Not all parts of the district will be subject to development contributions. This policy will focus on those areas where growth and development are at their greatest and where investment in infrastructure is most urgent.

“We have identified those areas in our ‘areas of benefit’ maps on our website. If you are not developing within an area of benefit, you will not be charged a development contribution.”

Applications for resource consents, building consents, or service connections that are submitted with all required information before May 29 will not be assessed for development contributions under the newly adopted Utu Whakawhanake Development Contributions policy.

“Development contributions will apply to applications made on or after that date, depending on the location and nature of the development.”

The council adopted the Utu Whakawhanake – Development Contributions Policy 2025 in October following public consultation and strong community support. Council staff have created a Development Contributions webpage and will be adding detailed guidance to this page in coming weeks and months to assist developers determine whether or not they will be charged. This will also provide a rough estimate of what those charges could be.

Anyone considering building or subdividing is encouraged to plan well ahead, check whether their property sits within a development contributions area of benefit, and factor the cut-off date into their project timelines.

Catchment maps and further information are available in the Development Contributions Policy and on the council’s Development Contributions webpage, both of which can be found on the council’s website.