We’re already feeling the effects of a changing climate in Christchurch, in the form of hotter and drier summers, more intense storms and floods, and higher sea levels. The hottest year on record for New Zealand was 2022, followed closely by 2023. Future projections show these impacts will become more frequent and severe if we don’t rapidly and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
However, some changes are unavoidable because of our past emissions, so we all need to understand and prepare for the challenges ahead. The level of climate change we might experience in the future is not certain, because it depends on the amount of greenhouse gases emitted throughout the world and how the environment responds to those emissions.
Our climate planning must consider a range of possible scenarios so we’re more prepared for our future. The information on this webpage shares our latest understanding of the climate risks and potential impacts for Christchurch.
Understanding the risks
We’ve undertaken assessments of the climate risks to Christchurch, Banks Peninsula and Canterbury, and we’re working with communities in our most vulnerable areas to explore responses to these risks. The exact numbers in the assessments may differ slightly because, over time, new information is gathered on global, national and local changes. As the reports are updated, new data will be added.
- The Christchurch District Risk Screening Report (2022)(external link) identifies how climate change could affect our natural and built environment.
- The Coastal Hazards Assessment (2021)(external link) identifies areas likely to be affected by sea-level rise and other coastal changes.
- The Floor Level Map(external link) identifies areas likely to be affected by flooding, now and in the future. This map shows Building Code and District Plan requirements for properties, along with information about floor levels where available.
- Its Time, Canterbury(external link) provides an overview of climate changes projected for Canterbury based on the more detailed Canterbury Climate Change Risk Assessment (2022).(external link) This assessment identifies key social, cultural, economic and environmental impacts across our region.
- The Climate Change and Hea(external link)lth in Waitaha Canterbury (2023) explores how climate change can affect people’s health and wellbeing.
- The Aotearoa New Zealand Climate Projections (2024)(external link) show how key climate variables are projected to change for territorial authorities, including the Christchurch District. This reflects our latest understanding of climate impacts.
Hot weather and drought
We can expect milder winters and more hot weather in summer.
Strong winds
A warmer atmosphere and ocean mean stronger winds.
Wildfires
More hot, dry and windy weather can increase the risk of wildfires.
Heavy rain and flooding
We can expect heavier rainfall over time, increasing the risk of flooding and erosion.
Rising sea level, coastal and ocean changes
Melting land-based ice is increasing the amount of water flowing into our oceans.