Climate change stories
Using tech-enabled ocean observation tools, a teacher in Hampton Hill School is bringing the science of the seas into her classroom.
A new analysis method could help New Zealand planners avoid costly over- or under-investment as climate risks become clearer over time.
Public anger over bottled exports is forcing ministers to confront whether New Zealand should charge commercial users for water.
Limited housing growth in Auckland is being blamed on poor infrastructure funding, with the OECD urging new ways to pay for public works.
Local councils are seeking more funding and policy support as climate change, ageing and infrastructure pressures reshape communities ahead of the 2017 election.
New Zealand’s rivers and lakes could see stricter protection, with campaigners urging the next government to curb irrigation subsidies and cow numbers.
Congestion charging in Auckland is now under formal review, with officials warning the city’s gridlock is hurting productivity and business.
Consumers could soon see fully renewable water bottles as Danone, Nestle Waters and Origin Materials race to commercial scale.
Broad agreement emerged in Wellington that cleaner waterways will require years of coordinated spending, science and shared responsibility across sectors.
Motu warns uncertain carbon pricing is delaying investment and slowing emissions cuts, and says a redesign could avoid billions in future costs.
Safety and environmental concerns will see methyl bromide captured at Ports of Auckland by year-end, after Green Party pressure.
The funding will help keep freight and commuter services reliable, while supporting recovery works and safety upgrades across KiwiRail’s network.
Unexpectedly hot water at depth could make Westland a significant clean energy source, with temperatures rivaling volcanic zones despite no volcanoes.
New Zealand could face higher rail costs and more breakdowns after KiwiRail was warned diesel replacements may be pricier and less reliable than electrics.
Downstream landholders and river habitats face fresh risk as Green Party says proposed forestry rules are too weak to stop debris and sediment.
New Zealand could hit net zero only by changing land use, as the report says a clean power grid and more electric transport are not enough.
A new report may reassure buyers that sudden battery failure is rare and most EV packs should last well beyond their warranty.
European asset owners are the global leaders on managing climate risk but Australia and New Zealand are now beginning to rival Europe.
Thousands of coastal homes could become uninsurable as sea levels rise, shifting climate costs on to homeowners and government.
Households could get relief from power bills as the Greens propose NZD $112 million in winter payments and a 2030 renewable target.