Climate change
MFAT leads our international negotiations as we work with the rest of the world to reach a more effective response to climate change.
Environment
/assets/Environment-images/Carousel/Beaufort-Island-Jana-Newman-carousel.jpg
Antarctica is important to New Zealand. Find out what we do to protect it. Photo: Jana Newman
/assets/Environment-images/Carousel/green-gecko-carousel.jpg
The many unique plants, birds and animals in New Zealand are a priority for us to protect. Photo: Department of Conservation
/assets/Environment-images/Carousel/lots-of-fish-carousel.jpg
As an island nation, we take a strong interest in the way the ocean is managed. Photo: @Vincent Zintzen (Department of Conservation)
/assets/Environment-images/Carousel/IUU-vessel-carousel.jpg
As a fishing nation, we take a strong interest in ensuring international fisheries are well managed. Photo: NZDF
/assets/Environment-images/Carousel/Whale-tail-carousel.jpg
New Zealand is a strong advocate for the protection of whales and a founding member of the International Whaling Commission. Photo: Department of Conservation
/assets/Environment-images/Carousel/solar-panels-carousel.jpg
New Zealand is committed to combating climate change, and finding ways to respond to its effects.
Related links
Draft comprehensive environmental evaluation - Italy gravel runway at Terra Nova Bay [PDF, 5.3 MB]
Joint statement on whaling and safety at sea 2016 [PDF, 92 KB]
Secretariat of the Antarctic Treaty (external link)
Ministry for the Environment climate change website (external link)
Information on CITES permit requirements for endangered species (external link)
Smart solutions to global environmental challenges
The world faces complex threats to the natural environment. These challenges, particularly to the atmosphere and oceans, require the creation and implementation of sensible international rules and frameworks to both protect the environment and support economic growth. New Zealand brings to the table unique interests and perspectives on how to approach these challenges.
MFAT works with other agencies to represent New Zealand at global forums where these issues are debated.
News & Events
Friends of Fossil Fuel Subsidies Reform - statement of support to Mexico
Mexico
New Zealand, along with Costa Rica, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Switzerland and Sweden, supports Mexico in its efforts to implement reforms to fossil fuel subsidies.
Climate Change and Business Conference
Climate Change Minister Paula Bennett spoke at the Australia New Zealand Climate Change and Business Conference in Auckland on 11 October.
New Zealand has formally ratified the Paris Agreement on climate change
New Zealand has formally ratified the Paris Agreement on climate change. Gerard van Bohemen, NZ’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, deposited the Instrument of Ratification in New York on 5 October (NZ time).
Minister Bennett signs Paris Agreement
Climate Change Minister Paula Bennett signs the historic Paris Agreement on Climate Change on behalf of New Zealand, at the United Nations.