Project listing and substantive application

The project was listed in schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024.

Stella Passage Development listing application – Ministry for the Environment website

A substantive application was lodged on 14 April 2025.

Stella Passage Development: initial substantive application

Completeness decision 

The substantive application by Port of Tauranga Limited (POTL) was deemed complete on 8 May 2025. The application complies with the requirements of section 46 (2) of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024. The application was lodged on 14 April 2025.  

Completeness assessment memorandum − Stella Passage Development substantive application (PDF, 1.6MB)

Decision on completeness and scope − Stella Passage Development substantive application (PDF, 64KB)

Competing applications decision

The substantive application by Port of Tauranga Limited (POTL) was deemed to not have any competing applications or existing resource consents on 22 May 2025. This decision is required under section 47 of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024. 

Record of decision on competing applications − Stella Passage Development substantive application (PDF, 66KB)

The application has now been referred to the panel convener for determination by a panel.

Judicial review of completeness decision

On 27 August 2025, Justice Boldt issued his decision on the judicial review of the EPA's decision on completeness for the Port of Tauranga Limited's Stella Passage application.

Judicial review of completeness decision (PDF, 296KB)

New referral application

Port of Tauranga Limited lodged a new referral application with an updated description of the project on 24 September 2025.

Stella Passage Development: new referral application