A 223 certificate is a document issued by a New Zealand local council that confirms that a the final land transfer survey plans match the approved scheme plan. Obtaining a 223 Certificate is a critical step in the land subdivision process, as it certifies that the subdivision layout, boundaries and easements meet the approved scheme plan from your approved resource consent.
Here's how the 223 Certificate process typically works:
1. Approval of Survey Plan
After getting resource consent for a subdivision, a licensed surveyor prepares a Land Transfer survey plan, which defines new lot boundaries and easement layout.
2. Application for 223 Certificate
A licensed cadastral surveyor submits the survey plan to the local council, which reviews it to ensure compliance with resource consent conditions. Auckland Council typically has between 2-5 conditions they review as part of the 223 conditions to ensure the land transfer plan is compliant.
3. Issuance
Once approved, the 223 Certificate is granted, enabling the developer to proceed to the next step—seeking a Section 224(c) Certificate. This final certificate is needed for your solicitor and surveyor to apply for formal title registration with Land Information New Zealand (LINZ). Together, the 223 and 224(c) Certificates ensure all conditions of your resource consent for your subdivision have been approved.
What is the purpose of a 223 Certificate?
Essentially, a 223 certificate it certifies that the subdivision layout, boundaries, easements, covenants and amalgamation conditions meet the approved scheme plan from your approved resource consent.
After getting a 223 Certificate how long do you have to get a 224(c) Certificate?
In New Zealand, It depends on when your resource consent expires. You have three years to get a 224(c) Certificate after a 223 certificate is issued but if the three years fall before the date your consent expires you will have until the date your resource consent expires to get your 224c certificate. However, you will need to re-apply for a 223 certificate if you don’t get your 224c certificate within three years. This timeframe is mandated by the Resource Management Act (RMA) 1991 and ensures that the subdivision process continues without undue delay.
For more detailed information about 223 Certification, you can consult with your local council or the team at Thornley and Associates.

We offer a wide range of surveying services at a reasonable cost; whether you’re planning an extension for your house or obtaining Unit Titles for your completed commercial building, you almost always need the expertise of a surveyor.