Planz Consultants Limited played a critical role in refining Christchurch’s short-term visitor accommodation rules (Plan Change 4). Engaged by Airbnb, we provided expert planning advice, collaborating with legal counsel Chapman Tripp to address the complexity and inefficiency of the original provisions. Through council hearings and Environment Court mediation, we helped create more practical, workable rules that better balance the interests of both property owners and the wider community.

The new regulations now require resource consent for properties rented to visitors for more than 60 days a year or with more than eight guests, a significant shift from earlier versions. This new approach supports the continuation of short-term visitor accommodation while addressing neighborhood concerns such as traffic and noise.

At Planz, we have developed streamlined forms and processes to assist homeowners in quickly and easily obtaining the necessary resource consents, ensuring compliance with the new rules. As these changes may inspire future national legislation, our team is prepared to guide property owners through any additional regulations.