What can we all do?

As Council, we have a big responsibility to lead the way when it comes to responding to climate change. While we work on the big stuff, there are some small, everyday actions we can all take to help reduce our city’s emissions and prepare for the future. 

Help us to reduce emissions: 

• Walk, cycle, or take the bus when you can, and leave your car at home. 

• Use your kerbside bins correctly. 

• Reduce food waste and put any food scraps you have in your green bin. 

• Get a home energy audit to reduce energy at home. 

• Find out more simple cost saving ways you can reduce your emissions. 

• Talk to your friends and whaanau about how they can help. 

Interested in learning more about climate change and the actions you can take? Send us an email at climate.change@hcc.govt.nz and we can organise a Climate Fresk workshop for you and your community, whaanau or friends.  

There are many things you can do to prepare for the changes in climate and extreme weather events. 

• Get your emergency kit ready. Check out getthru.govt.nz 

• Check out Floodviewer to see how different areas in Hamilton may be affected by flooding caused by extreme rainfall. 

• Consider planting native trees that can help create shade in hot weather, provide habitat for our native animals and protect your property from flooding. 

• Consider reusing grey water (rain) and use mulch on your vegetable garden. 

• Find out how you can conserve water. 

Renovating your property is a great time to look at how you might make your home more climate resilient and reduce your energy and water use.  

A key consideration is the impacts of flooding for your home. These considerations are part of Plan Change 14 and depend on what kind of changes you want to make (from major renovations to a new spa pool).  Find out more

Find out about our climate strategy