Department of Conservation | Te Papa Atawhai
https://www.doc.govt.nz/
https://www.doc.govt.nz/
Introduction
Find out application completion times and factors that impact processing times.Application processing targets introduced
DOC is focused on making sure it is easier for people and businesses to work with us, protect nature, manage conservation land while enabling recreation and tourism.
In November 2024 performance targets were introduced for processing permissions. The targets will see:
- most applications processed within specific timeframes
- that there are no active applications over one year old (with some exceptions) by the end of the 25/26 financial year.
The introduced timeframes are being phased in and will be fully in place by July 2026.
In the meantime, DOC is making many improvements to the way we process applications to ensure we can process them faster. For example, we have changed how drone applications are processed. Some other areas need longer-term programmes of work to achieve the step change that will be required to reach the targets.
Application targets
Application type | Target for end of 24/25 FY | Target for end of 25/26 FY |
|---|---|---|
Permits (concessions under the Conservation Act) including one-off permits. Examples: guiding, aircraft landings. | 80% within 4 months | 95% within 4 months |
Permits for one-off drone use (concessions under the Conservation Act) | 70% within 1 week | 95% within 1 week |
Wildlife Authorities (under the Wildlife Act). Examples: lizard salvage for development, species translocation. | 80% within 6 months | 95% within 6 months |
Non-notified licenses and easements (concessions under the Conservation Act). Examples: grazing, telecoms sites. | 80% within 7 months | 95% within 7 months |
Leases and notified licenses (concessions under the Conservation Act). Examples: ski fields, accommodation. | 70% within 9 months | 95% within 9 months |
Mining access arrangements (under the Crown Minerals Act). Example: coal and alluvial gold mining. | 70% within 6 months | 95% within 6 months |
Application backlog. No active applications are older than one year (exceptions may be identified). | n/a | 100% |
Application process
The application process involves:
- assessment of the activity against legislation and statutory planning documents
- assessment of the effects of the activity
- assessment of iwi rights and interests which may require consultation
- undertaking a statutory public notification process if required (minimum of 20 working days for public notification, but typically more time is required).
More information about the application process
If you carry out your activity before your application has been approved, you are likely to be committing an offence. Find out about DOC’s compliance and law enforcement function
Why some applications are processed faster
Complex proposals, with long terms and significant impacts take longer to process. Delays will also arise if more information is required to support the application.
Complete applications prevent delays
You can ensure you avoid preventable delays by checking what information you need to supply to make a complete application. Many applications are missing key information such as specific locations, and these are fundamental.
Iwi, hapū and whānau are likely to be consulted
Consultation is required on most applications. There may be more than one group to talk to. Some groups have very specific consultation requirements that are part of their Treaty settlement, which must be followed.
Iwi, hapū and whānau typically need 40 working days to respond to a formal DOC request for comment on an application.
If you want to consult iwi, hapu or whānau prior to making the application, your local DOC office can advise you on the best people to contact. This is recommended as it means your processing time is less likely to be extended, and you may make links with local groups who might support your proposed activity.
More information on iwi, hapū and whānau consultation
Effects of your proposal need to be considered
Some applications require input from technical experts within DOC to assess the effects of the activity and ensure adverse effects can be avoided, remedied, or mitigated.
Similarly, if your activity occurs in multiple locations, more time is needed to assess the impacts of the activity. There can also be multiple iwi, hapū and whānau groups to consult, or the activity or location of the activity may include sites of significance or taonga species.