Coasties, prepare for the impact of climate change on our health.

The Ministry of Health has introduced New Zealand’s first Health National Adaptation Plan, aimed at tackling the growing health challenges posed by climate change.

Deputy Director-General of Health, Dr Andrew Old, highlighted the increasing threats, noting that climate change can disrupt essential health services and introduce new health risks such as heatwaves and emerging diseases like dengue fever.

"Climate change impacts both our environment and our ability to lead healthy lives within it," Dr Old stated.

"Adapting to these challenges now offers opportunities to enhance our health system and make communities more resilient."

Key actions outlined in the plan include conducting a national climate health assessment and developing heatwave response strategies, including a national heat warning system.

Additionally, the plan will evaluate the health impacts of recent extreme weather events and identify strategies for improving urban infrastructure, such as increasing green spaces and tree coverage in urban areas.

Developed by the Public Health Agency in collaboration with Health NZ and other partners, this plan marks an essential step towards safeguarding the health of New Zealanders as climate challenges grow.