Signs Bylaw Consultation 2025/2026 - Closed

Kaikōura District Council is inviting the community to have their say on proposed changes to the Signs Bylaw.

This consultation has closed. Thanks to all who made a submission and has their say.

The draft Bylaw aims to better balance clarity, economic growth, road-user safety and aesthetic beauty but the key principle of no off-site signage is maintained.

There is an objective of providing an improved framework for businesses to advertise their goods and services or sponsor a club or society.

The bylaw, which was last reviewed in 2023, has presented some practical challenges since its implementation. These include confusion over which rules apply between the Council, NZTA, and the District Plan, as well as unintended consequences from the amnesty clause that allows old non-compliant signs to remain but prevents their replacement or renewal. Current size limits have also made it difficult for developers to advertise large subdivisions and for businesses or community groups to display sponsorship signs effectively.

To address these issues, the Council is proposing amendments to make the bylaw clearer and more workable. Key changes to the draft bylaw include clarifying the boundaries between different regulatory frameworks, introducing an exemption for signs with aesthetic merit that complement Kaikōura’s character, and allowing larger signs for subdivisions and sponsorships. Specifically, subdivision signs could be up to six square metres until 80 percent of lots are sold, and sponsorship signs could increase from one to three square metres. These changes aim to balance flexibility for businesses and developers with maintaining the visual character of the district.

Invitation for Submissions

Public consultation on these proposals will run from 4 December 2025 to 13th February 2026. Full details, including the draft bylaw and submission forms, are available at the bottom of this page.

This is your opportunity to help shape how signs are managed in Kaikōura — your feedback matters.

You can provide your feedback by:

Sending a written letter to Kaikōura District Council, PO Box 6, Kaikōura

Emailing submissions@kaikoura.govt.nz

Completing the online feedback form at the bottom of this page

Submissions must be received by 4pm, 13th February 2026.

Please indicate whether you wish to be heard by the Council in support of your submission. Public hearings for these proposals will take place in the Council Chambers on March 4th 2026.