The Government has announced Aotearoa New Zealand’s second international climate target under the Paris Agreement. The target aims to reduce emissions by 51 to 55 per cent compared to 2005 levels, by 2035.
The Paris Agreement is the global climate treaty which seeks to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Under the Agreement, each country sets targets for reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
New Zealand’s first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC1) covers the period 2021–30 and has a headline target of a 50 per cent reduction compared to 2005 levels.
NDCs can be met through a combination of domestic emissions reductions, domestic removals, and if needed, international cooperation (emissions reductions occurring offshore but paid for by New Zealand). The second NDC covers the same period as New Zealand’s third domestic emissions budget, and the Government plans to meet this target through domestic action.
The new target must meet a range of Paris Agreement conditions, including being a progression beyond the current NDC (NDC1), reflecting New Zealand’s highest possible ambition, and considering our unique national circumstances.
In developing the second NDC, the Government spoke with Māori, environmental groups and experts, industry and Tokelau (which is covered by our target). It listened to feedback from the public and considered independent advice from He Pou a Rangi | Climate Change Commission on what emissions reductions could be achieved domestically.
Under the Paris Agreement, New Zealand must publish a Biennial Transparency Report every two years to report on progress on its NDCs. The first report, which outlines progress towards NDC1, was published in December 2024