Document background
The Preliminary Environmental Assessment Report is a fundamental document in New Zealand's environmental planning and resource management system. It is typically required in the early stages of project planning when activities may have environmental impacts that need to be assessed under the Resource Management Act 1991 and related legislation. The report provides decision-makers, stakeholders, and affected parties with an initial understanding of potential environmental effects and their significance. It includes analysis of physical, biological, and social environmental impacts, consideration of cultural values, and proposed mitigation measures. The document is often used to determine whether a more detailed Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE) is required and to inform the resource consent application process. It must align with New Zealand's environmental regulations and consider Treaty of Waitangi obligations.
