Fast-track Approvals process

The Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 (the Act) was passed by Parliament in December 2024. It provides an efficient and streamlined decision-making process for projects of regional and national significance.

This means that those eligible to use the Fast-track process can seek multiple approvals to extract minerals or resources through a one-stop shop, making it a faster and more efficient process.

The information on this page is for those wanting to apply for a minerals or petroleum mining permit under the Fast-track process.

The page contains information on what you need to consider and do before applying for a mining permit, which includes talking with the team at New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals (NZP&M). Once you apply, you move across to the Fast-track team and they will guide you through the remainder of the process. You can read about the Fast-track process on the Fast-track website.

If you want to apply for approvals other than a mining permit, such as resource consent or land access, visit the Fast-track website.

Fast-track website

The Fast-track process is administered by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

Pathways leading to your mining permit application being considered for approval

Before you can have your mining permit application considered for approval, it must be accepted into the Fast-track process.

There are two pathways to have your project accepted:

1. Referral – you make a referral application. The Minister for Infrastructure considers your application and decides whether to refer your project into the Fast-track process. 
2. Listed projects - these projects have already been selected by the Government for the Fast-track process and are listed in Schedule 2 of the Act. These projects do not need referral.

Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 — legislation.govt.nz

Summary of the actions you need to take for each pathway

Referral pathway

• Check eligibility to apply
• Understand the options for applying
• Understand the costs involved
• Look over the application form
• Complete pre-lodgement consultation
• Make a referral application
• If your referral application is successful, make a substantive application. This is when your project is considered for approval.

Listed projects pathway

• Understand the costs involved
• Look over the application form
• Complete pre-lodgement consultation
• Make a substantive application. This is when your project is considered for approval.

Learn more about the points above in the sections below.

Actions you need to take for the referral pathway

Actions you need to take for the listed projects pathway