Climate Change Impacts on New Zealand

Climate Change Impacts on New Zealand

Environmental, Social, and Economic Effects Year 10 Science Understanding Our Changing Environment

What Do You Already Know?

Think about recent weather events in New Zealand Have you noticed any changes in your local environment? What climate change impacts have you heard about?

Environmental Impacts in New Zealand

Rising temperatures - 1°C increase since 1900 Changing rainfall patterns across regions Sea level rise affecting coastal areas Threats to native species and ecosystems Loss of glaciers and snow cover Increased frequency of extreme weather events

Temperature and Rainfall Changes Across New Zealand

Social Impacts on New Zealand Communities

{"left":"Effects on Māori communities and cultural connections to whenua (land)\nImpacts on traditional food sources and cultural practices\nHealth effects from extreme weather and air quality","right":"Housing vulnerability in flood-prone and coastal areas\nDisplacement of communities from sea level rise\nInequitable impacts on low-income communities"}

Economic Impacts on New Zealand

Agricultural productivity changes - dairy, sheep, wine Fisheries affected by ocean warming and acidification Tourism industry impacts from environmental changes Infrastructure damage from extreme weather Costs of climate adaptation and mitigation Economic opportunities in renewable energy

Group Role-Play Activity

Form groups of 5 students each Choose one impact scenario to explore Prepare a 2-minute role-play from your stakeholder's perspective Consider: How does climate change affect your community/industry? Present your group's findings to the class

Looking Forward

"Climate change is not just an environmental issue - it's about our communities, our culture, and our future prosperity. New Zealand has the opportunity to lead in both mitigation and adaptation."