News Update – Government announces Monday 20th July - Mana Whakahono ā Rohe (MWAR) contracts between councils and local iwi will be scrapped.

On Monday 20th July 2026 Chris Bishop has confirmed all existing Mana Whakahono ā Rohe agreements between councils and local iwi will be scrapped.

An amendment paper for legislation will be introduced in the next few weeks. Chris Bishop mentions the “intent” of planning agreements on the video at this link:

https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/on-air/heather-du-plessis-allan-drive/audio/chris-bishop-minister-responsible-for-rma-reform-on-changes/

The Alliance has written to the NPDC to check that further workshops, and any voting on MWAR contracts, will be cancelled at the council. We will let you know when we hear back.