Better acoustic insulation requirements for new apartments in Dunedin’s CBD are among changes that are now in force.
Decisions on Plan Change 1 (Stage 2 – All Other Topics), being made public today, result in a range of changes to Dunedin’s district plan (the 2GP).
Among the changes are increased acoustic insulation requirements for any new apartments and other noise-sensitive activities in Dunedin’s CBD, Warehouse Precinct and Harbourside Edge zones.
Other changes include:
- Better enabling healthcare activities in more locations
- Adding 23 new scheduled trees/tree groups and removing 16 others.
Hearings Panel Chair and Independent Commissioner Rob van Voorthuysen says the decisions released today reflect the Panel’s consideration of 217 submissions and over 30 presentations made to a public hearing in August 2025.
“As a result of the submissions we received, we’ve increased the proposed acoustic insulation requirements for new inner-city dwellings to include principal living areas, as well as bedrooms, in recognition that these rooms require a quieter noise environment.
“This reflects the concerns of those in the music community who wanted more stringent acoustic insulation standards, but we also had regard to expert evidence that raising the insulation requirements further would be likely to be a significant barrier to residential development.
“These changes are designed to support a vibrant CBD that leaves room for live music and a range of housing choices, and we believe we’ve got the balance right.
“The decisions also reflect the need to encourage healthcare activities in more locations in Ōtepoti Dunedin, and the contribution prominent trees make to the amenity of our community.
“This has been an extensive process and we’ve carefully considered all submitters’ views. I want to thank everyone for participating in the process and helping panel members reach the conclusions being announced today.”
DCC City Development Manager Dr Anna Johnson says Plan Change 1 was notified in November 2024 and open to submission and hearings which were conducted in two stages, beginning with a hearing on Stage 1 (Heritage) in May 2025 and a decision on those matters released on 17 July 2025.
Submitters to the Stage 2 hearing in August may appeal to the Environment Court within 30 working days of the decision being notified.
More information: www.dunedin.govt.nz/2gp-plan-change-1