Environmental Law Conference 2025

This conference offers a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of key developments in environmental law. You will gain valuable insights into recent cases, legislative changes, and emerging trends that are shaping the future of environmental regulation and compliance. Whether you're looking to deepen your understanding, stay informed on the latest issues, or connect with others working in the field, this conference provides a unique opportunity to connect and engage with practitioners working in this area of law. 

From the chair 

Tēnā koutou,

I’m delighted to invite you to this conference dedicated to legal professionals working in the complex area of environmental law at a challenging time.

The programme aims to cover areas of interest to many with topics ranging from the always popular case law updates, to the challenges and opportunities for water quality regulation and RMA reform.

The day promises to provide fresh insights that will strengthen your practice and deepen your understanding of key developments in such an intricate and evolving landscape.

I look forward to meeting you, either in-person or online.

Conference chair 

Bronwyn Carruthers KC, Shortland Chambers, Auckland

Programme outline

Download PDF brochure for a full outline of each session 

• Case Law Update
• General Insurance
• Fast-Track Approvals Act 2024
• Te Taiao and Te Ao Māori
• Climate Change and the Law
• Water Quality Regulation 2026 & Beyond
• New Planning Act and Natural Environment Act Update

Learning objectives

In this conference you will be:

• Updated on topical issues, legislation and case law.
• Able to apply this knowledge in your practice.

Who should attend

All environment and resource management lawyers as well as public lawyers whose practice touches on this area.

Timing

• 8.30am – 4.00pm

Book

A background book written by the presenters is available in hard copy, PDF, or both. Please indicate your choice upon registration.

• Hard Copy: Pick it up at the registration desk or have it sent to you by courier if you're attending via live stream – no extra charge.
• PDF: We'll email you a PDF copy of the book 3 working days before the event – no extra charge.
• Both: Get the best of both worlds! We'll email you the PDF 3 working days before the event, and you will either collect the hard copy at the registration desk or have it sent by courier if you're attending via live stream – for an additional $45

Format

This conference will include a diverse lineup of expert presenters covering a range of topics. Each session will include time for questions.

Held in-person & online. Live web stream registrants – you will be emailed a link to join the live stream one week before. For information on what is required to participate in the live web stream, click here. The most popular breakout sessions will be live streamed. A recording will be distributed approximately one week after the event.

Recording for Attendees

All attendees now receive four weeks of access to live stream recordings following each session. This added benefit allows you to revisit key insights, in your own time – at your own pace, and reinforce your understanding to extend the value of your learning well beyond attending the event. Recordings will be available approximately one week after the event.

Fee (incl GST) 

Law Society Members benefit from up to 30% off

In-person

Earlybird – by 16 October 2025

• $895 – Law Society members & associate members
• $1,275 – Non-members

Registration – after 16 October 2025

• $995 – Law Society members & associate members
• $1,375 – Non-members

Live Web Stream

Earlybird – by 16 October 2025

• $875 – Law Society members & associate members
• $1,255 – Non-members

Registration – after 16 October 2025

• $975 – Law Society members & associate members
• $1,355 – Non-members

View group pricing options
Download PDF brochure & registration form

Wellington	13 November
Live Web Stream	13 November
I can't attend, but please let me know when the book is available to purchase.

Comments from past attendees

• “I really valued the focus on environmental law.”
• “Informative and inspiring in equal measure.”

Cancellation and Refund Policy

You may cancel your registration eight working days in advance of an event, and you will receive a refund less a 25% administration fee. If you cancel less than eight working days in advance of the event, no refund is payable. If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your registration to another person. If you wish to do so you must advise CLE New Zealand Law Society in writing of the change. CLE reserves the right to close registrations, and cancel or reschedule an event as necessary. Where an event is cancelled by CLE, a full refund is payable.