Shovel in soil ready for planting

The ETS Registration Process

Registering your forest in the ETS is a structured process with several steps. Understanding what’s involved helps you prepare and ensures a smooth application.

Overview

The registration process involves two main agencies:

You’ll interact with both, but MPI handles the substantive forestry assessment.

Before You Start

Confirm Eligibility

Before investing time in an application, verify:

Gather Documentation

You’ll need:

Choose Your Pathway

Decide between:

This choice affects your obligations and can’t be easily changed later.

Step 1: Open an NZETR Account

The New Zealand Emissions Trading Register (NZETR) is where your carbon units are held. You need an account before registering forest.

How to apply:

  1. Visit the EPA’s NZETR portal
  2. Complete the account application
  3. Provide identity verification
  4. Wait for account activation (typically 1-2 weeks)

Account types:

You’ll receive login credentials and can access your holding account once approved.

Step 2: Prepare Your Maps

MPI requires digital maps in a specific format showing your Carbon Accounting Areas (CAAs).

Map Requirements

Format: ESRI Shapefile (.shp and associated files) Projection: New Zealand Transverse Mercator (NZTM2000) Content: Polygons defining each CAA boundary

Carbon Accounting Areas

You’ll divide your forest into one or more CAAs. Each CAA:

Considerations:

Getting Maps Prepared

Options include:

Step 3: Gather Supporting Information

Property Details

For each title involved:

Interested Party Consents

If applicable, written consent from:

Evidence of Post-1989 Status

MPI needs to confirm the land qualifies as post-1989 forest. Evidence may include:

MPI has access to historical imagery databases and can often confirm status from their records.

If the forest planting required resource consent under the RMA, provide:

Step 4: Submit Your Application

The Application Form

Complete MPI’s registration application, providing:

Submission

Applications are submitted online through MPI’s ETS portal. You’ll need to:

Fees

MPI charges fees for processing applications. Current fees vary based on complexity. Check MPI’s website for current fee schedules.

Step 5: Assessment

MPI reviews your application, checking:

Requests for Information

MPI may request additional information or clarification. Respond promptly to avoid delays.

Site Visits

For some applications, MPI may conduct a site visit or request additional imagery.

Timeframe

Processing typically takes 4-12 weeks depending on:

Step 6: Registration Confirmed

Once approved:

MPI will confirm registration in writing with details of your CAAs and applicable settings.

After Registration

File Emissions Returns

Once registered, you’ll file emissions returns to claim units (or report stock decreases). Returns can be filed:

Ongoing Obligations

You’re now responsible for:

Changes to Registration

If circumstances change, you may need to:

Each requires an application to MPI.

Common Registration Issues

Mapping Errors

The most common cause of delays. Ensure maps are accurate, properly formatted, and align with legal boundaries.

Post-1989 Status Disputes

If imagery is ambiguous, you may need to provide additional evidence. Historical farm records, owner statements, and surveys can help.

Missing Consents

Ensure all interested parties have provided written consent before applying.

LUC Classification Questions

If you’re near the boundary of LUC classes, get a formal classification before applying.

Getting Help

The registration process can be complex. Professional help is worthwhile if you:

We offer end-to-end registration support, from eligibility checking through to completed registration.

Key Takeaways

  1. Two agencies involved — EPA for the register, MPI for forestry
  2. Open NZETR account first — before submitting forestry application
  3. Maps are critical — must be in correct format
  4. Choose your pathway — standard or permanent
  5. Documentation matters — gather everything before applying
  6. Allow time — 4-12 weeks typical processing

Next Steps

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