Christchurch will welcome scientists, officials, and leaders from around the world in 2025 for a major climate change conference. The United Nations’ Adaptation Futures Conference, held every two years, is set for October 2025 in Christchurch’s Te Pae Convention Centre. About 1,500 attendees are expected.
Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger noted the city’s experience in adaptation, especially after recovering from earthquakes. The event will focus on preparing for climate change impacts like floods, wildfires, and rising sea levels.
To reduce the carbon impact of the conference, there will be local hubs in the Pacific, Africa, and South America. People can also join online. The University of Canterbury, along with local groups Ngāi Tūāhuriri and Ngāi Tahu, will organise the event.
Lisa Tumahai, chair of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, stressed the importance of including Indigenous voices in climate discussions. The conference will highlight the role of Māori knowledge alongside Western science.
Bronwyn Hayward, a researcher at the University of Canterbury, emphasised the significance of the event for New Zealand and encouraged community involvement. Despite the challenges of climate change, Hayward finds these meetings uplifting due to the innovative ideas presented.
To lower the event’s environmental impact, organisers plan a low-carbon approach with regional hubs and online participation to reduce travel emissions.
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