The classic “we’ll make it work” kiwi spirit was on full display at our recent Climate Veterans Webinar — a virtual hui where some of Aotearoa’s earliest climate champions took us behind the scenes of their decades-long mahi.
The spark for this event was a cheeky suggestion from one of our old hands: Nigel Jollands, who thought it would be enlightening to get together the “old farts” in the sector. We settled on the more polite “veterans,” but the idea stuck. Working across the usual multiple time zones and busy schedules, we roped in some legends of the NZ climate movement to share how they’ve navigated the ups and downs of environmental policy from the 1980s to now.
They took us from the reality of resource consents in Taranaki, through faxes and far-flung conferences, and right up to modern-day offset debates and overseas postings. Along the way, they reminded us that our classic Kiwi do-it-yourself grit is often what gets things done. So, if you missed the session or just want a recap, grab your flat white (or something stronger, depending on your time zone), and read on - or watch the full recording below.
Revisiting the Early Days
Each speaker traced their beginnings in climate work back to the late 80s and early 90s, when tackling “global warming” was still novel. Kirsty Hamilton (OBE), recalled her Greenpeace Aotearoa New Zealand days and the landmark Stratford legal case some 30 years ago, which tested whether CO₂ was a pollutant under the Resource Management Act.
Meanwhile, Matthew Everett and Nigel Jollands highlighted pivotal policy moments: the formation of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and the tireless push to embed energy efficiency into law.
Lindy Fursman, having worked on the Zero Carbon Act, underscored how near-unanimous support in Parliament required deft negotiation (and a sprint home from a wedding anniversary dinner!).
Despite political cycles, denial campaigns, and shifting economic ideologies, the panel agreed that robust institutions and strong legal frameworks remain crucial. Their experiences show that well-established bodies like EECA, the Environment Court, and the Climate Change Commission act as a “metronome,” keeping climate policy humming even when the political winds change.
On the High Seas with Nigel Jollands
A standout moment came from our remote caller via satellite from his trusty yacht, Novara. While navigating the turquoise Caribbean waters, he recounted their hands-on efforts with coastal communities across Europe, Africa, and now the Caribbean — helping them strategise for a changing climate. More recently, leading workshops with community groups that have been struggling with both internal organisation and, prioritising their actions for this year on their climate work.
Nigel and his wife's voyage ahead is nothing short of adventurous: from Cuba to Fort Lauderdale, with plans to venture into the Arctic later this summer, his journey embodies the resilience and adaptability that island nations urgently need in the face of rising seas and extreme weather.
Navigating Cycles and Looking Ahead
One recurring theme was the cyclical nature of climate progress in Aotearoa. The country has swung from bold leadership (think MMP-era environmental policy) to rearguard action, and then forward again—pushing the same boulder uphill. The panelists emphasised how climate denial has changed over time but stubbornly endures. Yet, their kōrero also brimmed with optimism.
In Kirsty’s words, “Pick something that motivates you and just give it a go.”
Whether you’re in government, finance, academia, activism, or community-led efforts, Matthew rightly put it, finding your people is vital - when at times it feels the odds are against you. As Lindy noted, subnational levels—councils and city initiatives—are often where the real work gets done, so seek out those pockets of innovation and rally behind them.
Advice to the Next Generation
Embrace the DIY Spirit. Just like the classic number 8 wire, sometimes a creative, hands-on approach is exactly what’s needed to push climate action forward.
Protect the Institutions. From EECA to the Climate Change Commission, support the frameworks that outlast short-term politics. They’re the kauri trunks of climate action.
Communicate Relentlessly. Combat misinformation by repeatedly sharing credible science and highlighting economic and health co-benefits. Keep that kōrero going.
Stay Connected. Join communities (like Kiwis in Climate) for camaraderie and collaboration.
The fight isn’t over yet. As Kirsty reminded us: “Most of the 1990s-era folks are still in it because the job’s not done.”
A massive tēnā rawa atu to our panelists for sharing the wisdom they’ve gleaned over decades of climate work. Big thanks as well to those who helped pull it all together behind the scenes. Keep an ear out for news on our next events (hint: we’ll soon be unveiling details about a Kiwis in Climate book project showcasing the work of a few Kiwi climate legends!).
If you’re not a member yet, consider signing up. We’re itching to top 200 donating members, and we’d love for you to be part of that milestone. If you’ve got someone in your network who might be a good fit, or someone who was a casual member of the original KiC hasn’t joined, give them a friendly nudge. “Old farts” or new generation both welcome!
“Never despair; but if you do, keep working on in despair.”
– Edmund Burke, aptly quoted by Matthew to remind us that perseverance can make all the difference.
Compiled and written with the use of ChatGPT |
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