New Zealand Government to Remove Heritage Listings to Boost Wellington Development

The RMA Reform Minister, Chris Bishop, announced a package of changes to Wellington’s district plan after an investigation into heritage provisions affecting five key sites. The government will remove heritage listings from the Karori Tunnel, Kelburn Viaduct and the Miramar oil tank, while the former General Headquarters Building at 213A Taranaki Street will remain listed. Height limits for non‑heritage buildings in the Courtenay Place Heritage Area will be relaxed, potentially enabling an estimated 550 additional apartments. Economic advisers estimate that the changes could generate about $200 million in construction activity, support roughly 1,100 jobs, and allow the Miramar site to host commercial activities such as film studios that could create around 300 jobs. Wellington City Council has formally supported all recommendations.