New rules support EV chargers
The government has announced the removal of what it calls “unnecessary consenting barriers” to EV charging infrastructure, making it faster and easier to build chargers nationwide.
Chris Bishop, Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, says amendments to the National Environmental Standards for Electricity Transmission Activities (NES-ETA) introduce new nationally consistent permitted activity standards for EV charging infrastructure.
These replace “fragmented and inconsistent district plan rules” and will come into force on May 7.
“Under the current system, anyone wanting to install EV charging infrastructure has had to navigate a confusing patchwork of local rules, creating uncertainty, delays and unnecessary costs for infrastructure that is typically small-scale,” says Bishop, pictured.
“These changes cut through that red tape. By setting clear national rules, we’re making it much quicker and easier to get chargers in the ground, while still managing effects appropriately.
“For the first time, the NES-ETA explicitly includes EV charging infrastructure, with permitted activity rules covering the full lifecycle from construction through to operation, upgrade and replacement.”
The amendments apply to private EV chargers; facilities in a transport corridor; chargers associated with other infrastructure or buildings, such as service stations or supermarkets; and standalone charging facilities, including charging hubs.
It comes soon after Bishop, as Minister of Transport, announced plans to install 2,574 new charge points nationwide as part of a co-investment scheme with ChargeNet and Meridian.
“Many New Zealanders have thought about getting an EV, even before the fuel challenges we’re currently facing, but a lack of public chargers is still holding people back,” he adds.
“This government is tackling that from both sides, by removing planning barriers and backing new investment to grow the network.”
New Zealand currently has just over 1,800 public charging points and is among the lower-ranked countries in the OECD for the number of chargers relative to EVs on the road.
Bishop explains that with chargers already in progress and the latest investment, the network is expected to more than double to about 4,550 charge points. The government’s goal is 10,000 by 2030, roughly one charger for every 40 EVs.
“Making it simpler to consent new chargers will help us get there faster.
“Many New Zealanders are already looking to switch to an EV when it’s time to upgrade their vehicle. Even before the current fuel pressures, running an EV was typically cheaper than petrol, and New Zealand’s electricity system is largely renewable.
“We’re also seeing that shift in the data, with EV registrations so far in 2026 up 96.4 per cent on the same period last year. Recent global events have likely accelerated that trend, as higher fuel prices drive more interest in EVs.”
He notes the new permitted activity standards include conditions to manage effects such as noise, earthworks, size and setbacks near residential areas, and traffic impacts for larger standalone facilities.
If those standards are not met, a restricted discretionary consent will still be required.
