What can we do?
No matter how small or big, cumulatively, every action counts. Actions could include simple everyday changes, encouraging others to act, or being prepared in case of an emergency.
Individuals
FutureFit was developed by Auckland Council to help New Zealanders work out their carbon footprint and take practical actions to reduce it.
Get an idea of the impact of your lifestyle on our planet and see how your everyday actions can make a difference. It only takes 5 minutes to get a snapshot of your footprint or stay longer to choose new actions, challenge friends, track and share your progress to become Future Fit.
Gen Less has lots of ideas about to reduce your carbon footprint and save money through energy efficiency.
With climate change there is a higher possibility of natural disasters, being prepared will help you and your whānau stay safe. For more information visit the Civil Defence's Get Ready
Climate Change Course: Empowering Communities for Action. The University of Canterbury and Christchurch City Council have teamed up to offer this 30-hour short course that is free for New Zealand residents. The course begins in 2026, runs over nine weeks and is being offered four times over the year.
Businesses
ClimateWiseis the practical, free tool that helps small and medium-sized businesses identify and manage climate-related risks — such as extreme weather, supply chain disruptions and insurance challenges.
Get the guidance you need to build long-term success. With a climate adaptation plan in place you can manage risks, reduce costs, attract customers, optimise your supply chain and enhance your reputation.
Gen Less, Save Energy in Your Business
Gen Lessprovides practical advice for businesses on actions they can take to improve energy efficiency and profitability.
Grants for Iwi/hapū community groups and schools
Grants are available through Councils and other funders for projects that are a response to climate change, here’s some funded by councils in our region:
Pūtea Hapori Urupare Āhuarangi - Community Climate Response Fund - Horizons Region
If you have a climate related project you can apply to Pūtea Hapori Āhuarangi, the Community Climate Response Fund. This fund aims to support and encourage community efforts to build resilience to the effects of climate change or support the transition to a sustainable carbon neutral regional economy by 2050, Horizons Regional Council run this fund. Applications open in March each year.
Community Climate Action Fund- Whanganui District
Whanganui District Council provides The Community Climate Action Fund provides seed funding for not-for-profit climate action projects.
Applications closed 17 November 2025, keep an eye out for next year’s dates.
Environment Network Manawatu administer this fund with funding provided by Palmerston North City Council and Eastern and Central Trust. The four pillars of the fund all include projects that can be a response to climate change.
Large Grants ($1000-$15000) open 1 January 2026 and close 15 March.
Small Grants (up to $1000) are open year-round.