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Note: This decision was partly confirmed on appeal to the District Court. See Tauranga City Council v Wadell [2026] NZDC 7006.

Read the appeal judgment

This determination considers the authority’s decision to issue a building consent under section 72 for alterations to a dwelling on a property that is subject or likely to be subject to the natural hazard of inundation by flooding.

It considers whether adequate provision to protect the land for flooding has been made.

This determination discusses the correct interpretation of the natural hazards provisions in the Building Act (sections 71 to 74). It considers whether measures to mitigate a rockfall natural hazard constitute “adequate provision” to protect the land and buildings from the hazard.

Discussed whether the building work complied with the Building Code current at the time the consent was issued and whether a code compliance certificate should be issued. Also discussed requirements for energy work certificates under section 94(3) of the Act, and producer statements.

This determination concerns a new dwelling constructed at the rear of a site with an existing dwelling, and compliance of the new dwelling in relation to movement to a place of safety in the event of a fire.  The matter at issue is whether the escape route to a safe place for the occupants of the rear dwelling required a protected path past the existing dwelling.

Discussed whether the building work complied with the Building Code current at the time the consent was issued and whether a code compliance certificate should be issued. Also discussed maintenance to external envelope to ensure it protects the underlying structure for the minimum required life of 50 years, and the modification of durability periods.