The Commission reports New Zealanders from all walks of life have been taking the opportunity to have their say on the draft advice which outlines a path for how New Zealand can reach its target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“I’ve been working in climate policy for 20 years and I have never seen this level of impetus and engagement from so many New Zealanders,” says Hendy. “The conversation has been very diverse – different viewpoints, young people, parents, small business owners, iwi/Māori, community, and a raft of different sectors and interest groups.”

“Mostly what we are seeing is that people are looking for long-term sustainable action, and the biggest question is around the pace of that. There are people saying we are not moving fast enough while others are saying we are going too fast. This is what the Commission’s advice needs to help Aotearoa navigate.”

The public must submit their thoughts and ideas on the draft by midnight on Sunday 28 March, and then, the Commission will deliver its final advice to the Government by 31 May, as required by the Zero Carbon Amendment Act.

“After submissions close, we will finish processing feedback and determine what changes to incorporate into our final advice for May,” says Hendy. “This includes re-running our models, updating our recommendations and advice, and updating the supporting information in our reports.”

Go to haveyoursay.climatecommission.govt.nz to submit your thoughts, which the Commission is still strongly encouraging people to do.

“This is a pivotal time in the response to climate change here in Aotearoa, and we are grateful to all of the New Zealanders who are engaging with the process,” says Hendy.