15 January 2024

What is a LIM Report in New Zealand? Complete 2024 Guide

A Land Information Memorandum (LIM) is an official document issued by your local council under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (LGOIMA). It is one of the most important documents in a NZ property transaction.

What Does a LIM Contain?

A LIM typically includes:

Zoning information — what activities are permitted on the land

Building consents and code compliance certificates — all consented work recorded by the council

Resource consents — any consent affecting the property

Rates information — current rates and any outstanding amounts

Hazard information — flood zones, erosion risk, and other council-held hazard data

Notices and orders — any outstanding requisitions, orders, or enforcement actions

Special land features — Heritage items, tree protection, coastal hazard lines

How Much Does a LIM Cost?

LIM costs vary by council:

Hamilton City Council: $375 (standard) / $563 (urgent)

Auckland Council: $350–$450

Wellington City Council: ~$390

How Long Does It Take?

Standard LIMs take up to 10 working days under LGOIMA. Urgent LIMs are typically available within 2 working days for an additional fee.

When Do You Need a LIM?

You should obtain a LIM for any property you intend to purchase. While not legally required, most property lawyers and banks strongly recommend it. The LIM contains council-held information that no other source provides — including unconsented work and outstanding notices.

How Does SiteIntel Differ?

SiteIntel is not a LIM. It is a property intelligence tool that aggregates publicly available data — from LINZ, council GIS layers, GNS Science, and the HAIL register — to give you a fast, cheap first look at a property's risk profile before you commit to purchasing a LIM.

Think of SiteIntel as the research you do before you order a LIM, not a replacement for it.

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