Moving to a low emissions Aotearoa

Te Whanganui a Tara - Government is asking for public input as part of its goal of ensuring Aotearoa’s transition to a low emissions future is fair and inclusive for all New Zealanders.

The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and MBIE say the start of public engagement to inform the development of an Equitable Transitions Strategy will guide the country’s approach to transitioning to a low emissions future and will include actions and policies to address challenges and seize opportunities.

There will be a range of opportunities for people to voice their views, including an online survey that will run until April 2023 and in-person and online meetings and workshops to be held early next year.

Aotearoa has set its path to a low emissions future and all over the country people, communities, towns, cities, hapū, iwi and businesses are taking action on climate change.

Moving to a low emissions future will bring opportunities, such as jobs in new industries and in the regions. It will also mean changes such as transport powered by renewable energy and warmer, more energy efficient homes.

Some people and communities will be affected more than others. That’s why the country is setting up an equitable transitions strategy to support all New Zealanders to make the most of the opportunities and minimise disruption and inequities.

All New Zealanders need to join the journey and benefit from the country’s low emissions future. Kiwis must make sure this strategy works for everyone. People need to understand what transition issues are most important as the nation we move to a low emissions future.

There are a number of ways people can have their say and stay informed on progress with work on the equitable transitions strategy, including the online survey and attending one of the many workshops and hui that will be taking place around the country next year.

“It crucial for the strategy to be informed by a robust engagement process that gathers the views and input from a diverse range of interest groups and communities.

Views and ideas gathered through public engagement and the survey results will help inform a draft strategy in June 2023 and a final strategy by June 2024.