Climate Change, Public Health, and Regional Security in the Indo-Pacific: Chapter 44 - Political perspectives on climate change policy in New Zealand

As climate change intensifies, the need for cohesive and forward-looking climate governance has become increasingly urgent, particularly in regions such as the Indo-Pacific, where environmental risks intersect with geopolitical instability. In New Zealand, however, climate policy remains deeply fragmented, shaped by sharp ideological divides that have impeded consistent action. Far-right skepticism, rooted in nationalist and antiglobalist narratives, has contributed to public mistrust and policy rollbacks. Meanwhile, economic pressures, political compromises, and institutional inertia have often hindered left-wing efforts to advance climate resilience. Compounding these challenges is the marginalization of Māori voices in climate decision-making, which limits the transformative potential of adaptation and mitigation strategies. The consequences of this political polarization extend beyond New Zealand's borders, as weakened climate leadership contributes to regional vulnerabilities, including resource scarcity, displacement, and socioeconomic stress. Drawing on recent political developments, scholarly research, and Indigenous climate justice frameworks, this chapterexamines the ideological currents shaping New Zealand's climate governance and assesses their implications for regional security. It argues for a more integrated and inclusive approach that bridges political divides, strengthens Indigenous leadership, and situates climate action within a broader strategy of regional cooperation and resilience.