A changing climate will alter the environment and threaten our lifestyle and economy. Worldwide, sea level rise will affect low-lying coastal areas. As climate patterns shift for Hawke’s Bay, there may be some positives, such as fewer frost days and a longer growing season. In Hawke’s Bay, warmer temperatures, less rain overall and more severe extreme weather events (e.g.drought, storms) will lead to prolonged dry conditions, more heat stress and soil erosion, a greater risk of wildfire, more frequent/extreme flooding, and new plant and animal pests.

We have a duty of care to make sure that adverse social, economic, cultural and environmental impacts of climate change are reduced to more acceptable levels. This will demand an ambitious co-ordinated programme of activities touching everyone.

Your voice is important and you can help shape the outcome for all Hawke’s Bay locals by putting your views before the council. I will listen to your ideas and help shape policies, proposals and plans on your behalf. Let’s make a difference together, feel free to contact me today, I’d love to hear your thoughts – Neil Kirton, click here.