So many ill-informed experts prepared to make comment with little or no knowledge.
Councils have to process subdivision consent applications in accordance with the law - the Resource Management Act.
Councils cannot arbitrarily approve or decline consent applications - despite what you may think.
The existing activity at the Pistol Club has to be consistent with the rules of the district and regional plans unless they have a resource consent to do otherwise. Sounds like the Pistol Club was in breach without a consent to cover the breach - their bad.
Anyone is entitled to complain about breaches of consent conditions or breaches of district or regional plan rules. Anyone.
New neighbours always pose a risk to an existing activity. Clubs should get their activities assessed and get consent(s) to cover themselves.
Clubs and individuals should engage in the process. If your district or region is reviewing their RMA plans (must be done or begun every 10 years) take part, seek more protection in the plan for shooting sports and ranges. Don't just sit on your arse and whinge later.
For the record I am an accredited RMA Hearing Panel Commissioner and RMA Hearing Panel Chair and a District Councillor as well as a shooter.
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