Election Special, Climate Action Festival

Six parties, one important conversation

Addressing climate change, biodiversity loss and biosecurity threats has never been more urgent for Aotearoa. Ahead of this year's general election, join us for a free community event where representatives from six political parties share their views on the environment.

This is not a debate. One representative from each of the six confirmed parties will respond, in their own words, to the same three set questions covering environmental policy, long-term funding, and how parties plan to work together beyond election cycles.

The remaining time will address themes raised through the questions you submit at registration, so the kaupapa reflects what matters most to our community, not just the parties on stage.

Whoever you're planning to vote for, this is a genuine opportunity to listen, gain insight, and inform your voting decision.

Event details

When: Thursday 17 September 2026. Doors open 5.00pm, nibbles on arrival, formalities begin 5.30pm.

Where: The Cargo Shed, Tauranga.

Cost: Free, registration essential.

Proudly co-hosted by Envirohub BOP, Tiwaiwaka, Bay Conservation Alliance, Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust, Tauranga Moana Biosecurity Capital (TMBC) and Sustainability Options.

Register now to secure your place.

Policy framework and approach: Biosecurity and healthy ecosystems underpin economic growth, prosperity, and resilience, with seventy percent of New Zealand's income coming from what the land and ocean provide. Parties will be asked for their position on environment, natural capital, biodiversity and climate change in terms of economic wellbeing, and their approach to biosecurity, conservation, resource management, adaptation and meeting international obligations.

Funding position: Much of the work supporting biosecurity, conservation and biodiversity around the country relies on short-term grants and local funding, alongside reducing central government investment. Parties will be asked about their policy on sustained, long-term funding, and whether they would commit to closing the gap so regional, industry and community-led responses aren't left under-resourced.

Strategy for enduring outcomes: Parties will be asked how they would work across party lines to deliver durable, science-based action on climate change and biodiversity loss, and what mechanisms they would support for long-term cooperation beyond election cycles.