Overview
Our market research programme monitors the mood of the nation relating to climate change, energy emissions and efficiency, and topics like electric vehicles. Every quarter, we survey 750 adult New Zealanders to track their beliefs, behaviours and attitudes to energy use and climate change. This survey canvassed New Zealanders from July-September 2022.
Findings
In the July-September 2022 quarter, we saw cost of living top the list of important issues for New Zealanders, at 93%.
Climate change remained at the bottom, with just 68% of people describing it as important or very important. Despite this, belief in climate change remains steady at 83%, and 74% of people agreed they are prepared to change their own personal behaviour in order to reduce climate change.
And we’re seeing more people taking action in reducing their energy use at home.
Actions taken (always/almost always)
An electric milestone
In this quarter, people considering an EV or PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) reached 50%. Consideration for hybrid vehicles reached 55% and petrol is at just 62%, down from 79% in the first half of 2019. It’s likely the Clean Car Discount, announced in June 2021, and rising petrol prices, have contributed to this shift.
Read the full report
EECA will publish new reports each quarter to track how attitudes and actions are changing.
Download previous reports
Read more EECA insights
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New Zealanders’ climate change beliefs and behaviours: June 2022
Our research shows we’re approaching an electric vehicle tipping point.
- Market research
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Climate change and New Zealand business: May 2022
EECA's twice-yearly insight into how the business sector is responding to climate change.
- Market research
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Public attitudes and action on energy and climate change: Dec 2021
Every quarter, we survey 750 adult New Zealanders to track their beliefs, behaviours and attitudes to climate change and energy. What we’ve found is there is real and urgent need to mobilise New Zealanders around climate change.
- Market research