Following the weather events in early 2023, the Ministry for the Environment commissioned The Research Agency to investigate if and how property owners across Aotearoa New Zealand are preparing for the impacts of climate change, and what information or support they need.
The findings presented in this report show that most respondents recognise climate impacts are already here but are yet to take steps to protect their property.
The information in this independent research does not necessarily reflect the views of Ministry for the Environment.
Following the weather events in early 2023, the Ministry for the Environment commissioned The Research Agency to investigate if and how property owners across Aotearoa New Zealand are preparing for the impacts of climate change, and what information or support they need.
The findings presented in this report show that most respondents recognise climate impacts are already here but are yet to take steps to protect their property.
The information in this independent research does not necessarily reflect the views of Ministry for the Environment.
Summary of findings
- Most people recognise climate change impacts are here or will be soon, but there are barriers to taking any adaptation action:
- People don’t know how it will impact them. While people are aware a risk exists, fewer than 1 in 10 claim a lot of knowledge on the effects of climate change on property.
- Property owners perceived some impacts – like effects on insurance premiums – as imminent, but others – like inundation from the sea – as far in the future.
- Many people think it is someone else’s responsibility to cover the cost of climate impacts. Less than half feel it is the property owner’s responsibility. One third of people say affordability stops them from taking action.
- People don’t know what they can realistically do.
- Property owners don't generally connect the actions they're taking to adapt their homes with reducing the impacts of climate change. Fewer than 1 and 10 people are taking action beyond basic house maintenance.
- People want more information about what actions they could take.
- Motivations to taking action are close to home: it’s about protecting family, peace of mind and financial security.