Government climate inquiry announcement receives cross-party support

The Government announced this morning that it will launch an inquiry into developing a climate adaptation framework for New Zealand.

A notice of motion giving the Finance and Expenditure Committee the power to carry out the investigation received cross-party support in the House.

“A durable, long-term approach is needed to provide certainty for New Zealanders and the economy as the climate continues to change,” said Climate Change Minister Simon Watts.

“Here in New Zealand we are feeling the impacts of climate change and are seeing more frequent and severe damaging natural events, such as floods, storms and landslides.

“Natural disasters are costly and we must take steps to protect against losses and ensure the things we value most – our communities, jobs, industries and homes – are prepared to withstand the impacts of climate change.”

The purpose of the research is to develop and recommend objectives and guiding principles for the design of a climate adaptation framework for New Zealand.

The framework will “set out the Government’s approach to sharing the costs of preparing New Zealand for the impacts of climate change”.

“It will help communities and businesses understand what investments are planned in their area, for example whether the council will build flood protection infrastructure and what support will be available to help with recovery from events such as slips or flooding. It will also look to improve the way we share information, so everyone can make informed decisions about how to manage risk,” Watts said.

It will also guide decision-making before a serious event and the response afterwards, “meaning we won’t have to start from scratch every time.”

“To find solutions that are lasting, we need broad agreement. That is why I am delighted to have the support of the entire House for this motion and the commitment to work together on this issue.”

Labor and Greens respond

Labor climate spokeswoman Megan Woods welcomed the move and said the impact of climate change “knows no partisan politics.”

“It is imperative that we build long-lasting, long-lasting policies that will outlast any government,” he said.

“To do that we have to work across the House. We have done it before and we can do it again.

“I welcome the conversation on climate change adaptation and look forward to cross-party work on this important issue.”

Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick agreed, saying the party was “ready and willing to work with all political parties” to continue the critical climate adaptation work started by her predecessor, James Shaw.

“Just over a year ago, our North Island was hit by deadly and devastating weather events linked to climate change. Many are still dealing with cleanup, insurance issues and infrastructure gaps. These are the consequences of a planet warming and we must do everything we can to mitigate the emissions that cause climate change and adapt. Good policy does both,” he said.

“We congratulate Minister Watts for taking over from the Hon. James Shaw to advance the critical work of climate adaptation in a multi-party manner.”

Swarbrick encouraged “everyone and their communities, hapū and iwi, to get involved in the research to give their opinion.”

“Let’s continue this critical work for people and the planet.”