New Zealanders are calling for stronger Government leadership on climate hazards, with a new national poll revealing growing concern that the country is not adequately prepared for the increasing impacts of extreme weather and climate change.
The latest AMI, State and NZI 2026 Climate Poll shows public confidence in New Zealand’s ability to manage climate risks has fallen sharply, with only 27 percent of respondents believing the country is well prepared for the challenges ahead.
The findings highlight widespread concern about the growing frequency and severity of storms, floods, coastal erosion and other climate-related hazards that have affected communities across Aotearoa in recent years. Respondents are calling for greater investment in resilience measures that reduce risk before disasters occur rather than relying primarily on recovery after major events.
The poll found strong public support for practical measures such as making homes, buildings and critical infrastructure more resilient, reducing development in high-risk locations and improving protection for communities already exposed to flooding and other natural hazards.
Insurers say the results demonstrate that New Zealanders increasingly understand the connection between climate change, natural disasters and rising insurance costs. More frequent and severe weather events have led to higher claims, placing additional pressure on insurance premiums and raising questions about the long-term affordability of cover in some high-risk areas.
For Māori communities, the issue carries particular significance. Many marae, papakāinga and coastal settlements are located in areas already experiencing the effects of erosion, flooding and sea-level rise. Iwi and hapū have consistently advocated for adaptation strategies that protect both people and culturally significant sites while recognising the importance of mātauranga Māori and kaitiakitanga in environmental planning.
The survey suggests New Zealanders see Government as having a central responsibility in coordinating climate adaptation, providing leadership on land-use planning and supporting local councils as they respond to increasingly complex environmental risks.
The findings also reinforce the growing focus on resilience rather than recovery. Experts argue that investing in flood protection, stronger infrastructure and better planning before disasters strike is more cost-effective than repeatedly rebuilding after damaging weather events.
As climate change continues to reshape communities across Aotearoa, the poll suggests New Zealanders want a clearer national strategy that provides certainty for households, businesses and local authorities while helping reduce future risks.
With extreme weather events becoming more frequent, the message from the survey is that New Zealanders are looking for decisive action that strengthens community resilience, protects vulnerable regions and prepares the country for a changing climate.
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