The Environmental Defence Society has condemned the Fast-track Approvals Amendment Bill in its submission to the Environment Select Committee, warning that it will further weaken environmental safeguards, erode public participation, and undermine constitutional checks and balances. The Bill would give the Minister more influence in fast-track decisions, strip away environmental...
The 30th UN climate conference will take place from 6-21 November 2025 in Belém, Brazil. It will bring together world leaders, scientists, non-governmental organizations, and civil society to discuss priority actions to tackle climate change. COP30 will focus on the efforts needed to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5°C,...
Carlile House, at 84-90 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, aka the Costley Training Institute (Former), a Category I Historic Place, is deteriorating further, with no resolution in sight. Built in 1886, the two-storey brick building in Classical-Italianate style has not been in use for decades. Following the closure of the Costley...
Certified advisors can offer free, impartial advice to Auckland residents and ratepayers about how to lower your power bills and make your home warmer and drier. An advisor can help to: Improve the health, comfort and performance of your home Warm your home in winter and cool it in...
At the recent World Urban Parks Symposium in Istanbul, Türkiye, Auckland Council won three international honours: Outstanding Large Urban Parks Award for Tōtara Park, Manurewa Outstanding New Park Award for Te Auaunga/Walmsley and Underwood Reserves, Mt Roskill Leading Parks Organisation Award for Auckland Council itself. In NZ, Council’s Waimahara project...
The government has announced proposed legislative changes aimed at making the earthquake-prone building (EPB) system more risk-based and proportionate. The changes are designed to target buildings that pose the greatest risk to life safety, while improving affordability, reducing unnecessary costs and disruption, particularly in regional communities. The proposed changes include:...
The 2025 Bird of the Year champion is the kārearea New Zealand falcon. Famous for fronting the $20 note, kārearea can clock 200km/h and can catch prey mid-flight. They have even adapted to hunt within the dense New Zealand forests. Bird of the Year: Twenty years of ruffled feathers is...
The Global Ocean Treaty has now been ratified by 60 countries. The agreement will allow for the creation of marine protected areas on the high seas. The treaty will enable the creation of ocean sanctuaries where ocean life will be protected from threats like destructive bottom trawling deep sea mining....
The Auckland Climate Grant is a targeted grant programme to support community-based climate action. The grant provides funding support for projects that: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions through community-based action Increase adaptation through community-based action Support Māori-led responses to climate change Image: Auckland Council
This initiative encourages people to check on a drain in their neighbourhood and keep it clear of leaves and rubbish. This will keep water flowing, help to prevent floods, and protect waterways. It’s a small act with a big impact. See https://www.neighbourhoodsupport.co.nz/adopt-a-drain Image: Auckland Council