Update: December 2025

Details of new system expected in 2026

Since late 2024, the national FW FP system has been paused, with the exception of the Southland Region. During this time, the government has been working on changes to the national FW FP system. In August 2025, changes were made to the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Act, which affect how the new system will work, including allowing closer integration with industry assurance programmes. These new regulations allow for approved industry organisations to appoint certifiers and auditors, in addition to regional councils. Specific competency requirements for certifiers and auditors, and the required content of FW FPs, are yet to be released.

While we know this pause is frustrating for those who have committed time and resources to this process. AsureQuality continues to advocate for a consistent national training and appointment process for certifiers and auditors, to ensure a robust FWFP system.

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Regional training - Council updates

Environment Southland: Regional training for new applicants is available now.
Email: farmplans@es.govt.nz

Waikato Regional Council: Waikato regional training is on hold. Please email for all enquiries.
Email: pie@waikatoregion.govt.nz

Horizons Regional Council (Manawatū - Whanganui): Regional training is on hold. Useful regional information that was developed as part of certifier regional training material is available on Horizons Regional Council website under the heading ‘Helpful Information’ and can be found here.
Email: FreshwaterFarmPlans@horizons.govt.nz

West Coast Regional Council: No regional training will be undertaken until new regulations are fully developed.
Email: info@wcrc.govt.nz

Otago Regional Council: No regional training will be undertaken until new regulations are fully developed.
Email: farmplans@orc.govt.nz

Environment Southland: No regional training will be undertaken until new regulations are fully developed.
Email: farmplans@es.govt.nz