Why You Should Make a Submission on PC120
Shaping the Future of Your Neighbourhood
If you live in Auckland (and especially in East Auckland ), the recently notified Plan Change 120 is a big deal — and here’s why it’s worth your time.
What is PC120?
Plan Change 120 is the update to the Auckland Unitary Plan that sets out how land can be used, where housing and commercial buildings can be built, how high they can go, and how we prepare for natural hazards like flooding, coastal erosion and landslides. https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/news/2025/10/what-auckland-s-new-plan-means-for-your-neighbourhood/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Why It Matters to You
Housing & neighbourhood character – The rules for where new homes (townhouses, terraces, apartment-style) can go are changing. Some areas may see higher density, taller buildings, or new restrictions.
Risk and resilience – PC120 introduces tougher controls for areas prone to flooding, erosion or other natural hazards so our communities are safer long-term.
Transport & infrastructure – The plan aims to encourage new homes near rapid transit, busways, train stations and major town centres. That means your street could change, or the area around your local centre may be targeted for growth.
Your say matters – This is your opportunity to influence what happens in your area. Even if you’re comfortable with the change, your input can help ensure protections, clarify rules, and reflect local views.
Key Dates You Should Know
Submissions open: 3 November 2025
Submissions close: 5 pm Friday, 19 December 2025
Visit the official page for PC120 and associated maps:https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/aucklands-future-housing-plan
How to Make a Submission
Go to the AK Have Your Say website: https://new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/en/plans-policies-bylaws-reports-projects/our-plans-strategies/unitary-plan/auckland-unitary-plan-modifications/proposed-plan-changes/pc-120-housing-intensification-resilience.html
Download or complete the official submission form (Form 5) if you prefer to mail it. https://new.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/en/plans-policies-bylaws-reports-projects/our-plans-strategies/unitary-plan/auckland-unitary-plan-modifications/proposed-plan-changes/pc-120-housing-intensification-resilience/pc-120-submission-form.html
Determine which zone your property is in, what changes are proposed for your street or local area (look at the maps). https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/a69c494d01e341689b68a89a6eea2b86
Write your submission: detail whether you support, oppose or wish to amend the proposed changes, give reasons, include any evidence you have (local knowledge of flooding, traffic, infrastructure, community character).
Submit online or via post before the closing date (19 December 2025).
Consider whether you wish to attend a hearing (if you want to speak), or just make a written submission.
Tips for a Strong Submission
Keep it honest and personal, “I live on X Street, I see Y issue…” works better than general statements.
Tie your points to the actual rules or proposed changes (e.g., “In my area, the proposed height of 6 storeys is too much because…”).
Provide evidence or examples, if you know your street floods, mention that. If traffic is already heavy around the local centre, mention that.
Be clear on what you want, do you support with changes, oppose outright, or support certain parts only?
Mark any parts that affect your specific local area ( Howick, Cockle Bay etc).
Attend or listen to an online session if offered, hearing from council staff, seeing maps live helps you understand the proposals better and improves your submission.
Why Your Involvement Is Important
Without community submissions, decisions tend to favour broad policy rather than local nuance. By participating:
You help balance city-wide growth pressures with local infrastructure and character.
You give voice to how your suburb or street may realistically change.
You help ensure protections for things you care about, neighbourhood character, views, sunlight, parking, flood-risk, etc.