What correspondence or meetings, if any, did the Minister have with Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard about the contents of his Amendment Paper 710 to the Natural Environment Bill, prior to its introduction?

Answer

On 28 July 2026, Hon Andrew Hoggard along with other relevant portfolio Ministers attended a meeting I held with representatives from the primary sector about the Natural Environment Bill and the Planning Bill as reported back by the Environment Select Committee. These discussions informed some of the changes ultimately made to the Natural Environment Bill via Amendment Paper 710. I met with Hon Andrew Hoggard, Hon Todd McClay, Under-Secretary Simon Court and officials on 29 July 2026 regarding changes relating to Freshwater Farm Plans which were given effect to through Amendment Paper 710 to the Natural Environment Bill. On 17 August 2026, Cabinet considered and approved the amendments made through Amendment Paper 710.