Environment and planning

Bell Gully has a reputation for achieving successful outcomes for clients. We work on significant projects that are shaping major cities, as investment in New Zealand infrastructure continues at pace.

Our team assists clients to manage the complex consenting and compliance issues involved in major projects and developments. The breadth of our experience in large scale infrastructure work, transport, energy, water, commercial development, manufacturing, mining, and climate change provides our clients with leading expertise, no matter what the issue or project.

We represent clients in contested proceedings before Councils, the Environment Court and the Higher Courts. We provide advice and input into planning and policy at district, regional and national levels.

Our team has specific and extensive expertise in due diligence advice for mergers, acquisitions and property transactions, particularly with respect to sensitive land applications under the Overseas Investment Act. We also advise on environmental liability issues, particularly on contaminated sites, working with clients on their immediate and longer-term issues.

^{Chambers Asia Pacific 2025 Environment & resource management, 'Band 2'.}

^{The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2025 Projects and resources management (including environment), 'Tier 1'.}

^{Clients say "They have a continued focus on long-term outcomes which seek alignment between the goals of our organisation, the views of stakeholders and the long-term benefits we can deliver for the community."}

^{"Natasha Garvan is highly collaborative and an excellent leader."}

Auckland Transport and NZTA Waka Kotahi

Advising on Te Tupu Ngātahi, the Supporting Growth Alliance on the transportation network and related designations for the next 30 years of Auckland's growth.

Igneo Infrastructure Partners

On the environmental due diligence for its NZ$1.9bn acquisition of the Waste Management business.

Auckland Transport – RMA interpretation

Successfully represented AT on declaratory proceedings in the Environment Court on the interpretation of the provisions for 'rollover' designations and lapse dates under the RMA.

Auckland Transport – Redoubt & Mill Rds

Advised on designation for the NZ$245m upgrade of roading between Redoubt Road in Manukau and Mill Road.

Waikato-Tainui – reforms

Advised Waikato-Tainui on reforms by the Labour-led Coalition Government to reform Three Waters, and replace the Resource Management Act to ensure the Waikato River Treaty Settlement is upheld through the creation of new legislation.

Transpower

Representing at Council hearings and Environment Court mediations, and advising on appeals for planning matters including district and regional policy plans.

City Rail Link Limited

Assisted with obtaining the original designations and resource consents, and a range of alterations to the designations. The NZ$4.6bn, 3.4km CRL is New Zealand's largest ever single civil construction project.

Genesis Energy

Acting on the Healthy Rivers/Wai Ora Plan Change 1 to the Waikato Regional Plan, Proposed Waikato District Plan, and Plan Change to the Wellington Regional Policy Statement.