New LIM updates from Government

Published on 29 October 2025

New Government rules change the information about natural hazards included in Land Information Memoranda (LIMs). 

LIMs are reports prepared by councils that provide the specified information they hold about matters affecting land. They are commonly used by property buyers and real estate agents to help inform decisions about purchasing a property. 

From 17 October 2025, new Government regulations require all LIMs issued by Whangarei District Council to include more comprehensive information identifying natural hazards or climate-change impacts that affect the land. 

This change is part of a nationwide update to ensure people have access to clear and consistent information when considering property transactions. 

For Whangārei, LIMs will continue to include known information about natural hazards that may affect a property, such as flooding, coastal inundation (including sea-level rise), tsunamis, mining hazards and land stability. 

However, our updated LIM reports will look different with a separate 'natural hazards' section including plain-language summaries and details on technical reports as required. 

The information may come from Council records or Northland Regional Council data, and may include reports, maps, links to online portals, photos, videos, or notifications under section 73 of the Building Act 2004. 

These changes are designed to help property buyers, owners and agents better understand any natural hazards that could impact a property. 

The regulations also make it clear that LIM reports are just information-disclosure tools and that councils are not required to provide property-specific risk assessments or other further analysis for a LIM. 

Anyone purchasing a LIM report is still expected to undertake their own risk assessments as part of their due diligence. 

The updated LIMs apply to all applications made on or after 17 October 2025.