Cavell Leitch

Trusted resource management lawyers - New Zealand


Our resource management lawyers are recognised experts with established reputations and proven track records in this complex field.


Expert resource management advice for councils, developers, and individuals

We work with councils, developers, farmers, environmental groups, and individuals to help them achieve their resource management goals. Whether you need advice on district or regional plan changes, proposed developments, renewing a resource consent, or navigating the Resource Management Act, our team has the expertise to assist you every step of the way.

Tailored Legal Support for Your Resource Management Needs

New Zealand’s natural resources are protected by complex laws, and our public rightly values their careful management. Our experienced resource management lawyers in Christchurch help clients navigate these regulations to achieve their goals, no matter how big or small the project.

Whether you need advice on district or regional plan changes, planning a new development, renewing a resource consent, or addressing any other resource management matter, our team has the expertise, proven track record, and capability to assist you.

We provide tailored guidance on all aspects of resource management and planning, offering support to projects of all sizes—no job is too big or too small.

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Expert Legal guidance for rural resource consents

We enjoy using our bank of knowledge and experience to ensure our rural clients have the rights to use their land as they need.

​We can assist you through the consenting process, including obtaining and maintaining land use consents, bore and water take permits, and subdivision consents (which may, for example, be needed to achieve your farm succession plans).

We also keep abreast of upcoming changes to local and regional plans. If a plan change is going to affect you we can assist you assess and mitigate the impact, including preparing a submission to the relevant Council.

We can also advise and assist you if things go wrong, and you need to respond to a claim that may lead to enforcement or prosecution proceedings.

Navigating complex environmental and resource laws

Cavell Leitch currently has a number of district councils as clients who choose to use our services due to the quality of advice and service they receive. Our teams understand the unique challenges facing the public sector and this is evident in the testimonials received from current clients.

We have extensive experience in Resource Management Act regulatory litigation in the Environment Court for private clients and local authorities

Waste, discharges and contamination

It is important for businesses and communities to focus their efforts in order to deliver environmental, social and economic benefits to all New Zealanders. The responsibilties for territorial authorities are set out in the Waste Minimisation Act 2008 (the Act). Waste-related initiatives under the Resource Management Act 1991 and the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 are also under way – for example, the proposed National Environmental Standard for Assessing and Managing Contaminants in Soil.

If waste management is an important part of your business our Resource Management experts are here to help you.

Meet our people

Meet our resource management legal experts

Our resource management lawyers are renowned for their expertise and proven success in this complex field. From councils and developers to rural clients and individuals, we provide tailored legal advice to achieve your resource management goals. Whether you need help with plan changes, consents, or navigating environmental regulations, our experienced team is here to guide you, no matter the size of your project.

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Contact Resource Managment Experts Today

Whether you are managing rural, environmental, or development projects, our experienced lawyers are here to provide clear and effective solutions, no matter where you are in New Zealand.