New Zealanders are showing signs of waning anxiety over climate change risks, according to the latest insights from Ipsos research. The People and Climate Change Report 2026 reveals a global trend of declining urgency, with public support for immediate action becoming more conditional amid economic pressures. In New Zealand, this shift mirrors patterns observed in recent years, where concern levels have noticeably dropped post-major weather events.

This phenomenon, often termed 'climate fatigue,' reflects a broader reassessment of priorities as cost-of-living crises dominate headlines. While a majority still acknowledge the importance of climate action, the intensity of worry has softened, prompting questions about policy momentum and public engagement strategies.

Key Findings from the Ipsos 2026 Report

The Ipsos People and Climate Change Report 2026, surveying over 23,000 adults across 31 countries including New Zealand, highlights several pivotal statistics. Globally, the proportion agreeing that individuals must act now to avoid failing future generations has fallen in every one of the 26 countries tracked since 2021, with an average net decline of 15-29 percentage points. In New Zealand, 56% agree businesses must prioritize climate action or risk failing stakeholders, placing the country mid-table among nations.

Climate change remains a top emerging risk for the next decade, yet it ranks lower in immediate worries, overshadowed by inflation and unemployment. About 75% of respondents worldwide feel personally vulnerable, but only 48% believe it's too late to act. For New Zealanders, renewable energy is viewed positively for air quality by a significant margin above the global average.

• 61% globally feel individuals need to do more, down over time.
• 57% say businesses should lead, with NZ at 56%.
• 59% want countries to accelerate efforts.

These figures underscore a pragmatic approach, where support persists but enthusiasm wanes under economic strain.

Historical Trends in New Zealand Public Sentiment

Looking back, New Zealand's climate concern peaked around 2023 amid devastating floods and Cyclone Gabrielle. The 2025 Ipsos report noted worry about local impacts dropping to 69% from 80% in 2023 and 76% in 2022. Urgency for government action fell to 54%, below the global average, while belief in a clear plan plummeted to 23%.

Earlier surveys, like the 2023 Global Advisor, showed rising concern but skepticism over government plans. By 2026, the pattern continues, with cost-of-living topping Ipsos Issues Monitor lists. This decline isn't unique; similar 'post-event fade' occurred after 2011 Christchurch earthquakes for disaster preparedness.

Demographics play a role: younger Kiwis (18-34) remain more alarmed, but overall, fatigue sets in as daily struggles intensify.

Global Comparisons: NZ in Context

New Zealand aligns with advanced economies where concern cools faster than in developing nations. Indonesia leads business action support at 79%, while Germany lags at 43%. NZ's 56% ties with mid-tier countries like Ireland.

Globally, 50% prioritize cheap energy over emissions cuts, a sentiment echoed in NZ amid rising power bills. Download the full Ipsos 2026 report for country breakdowns.

In Australia, similar declines tie to economic woes; Europe shows variance with Poland's sharp drop (-29%). NZ's position reflects a mature democracy balancing environment and economy.

Economic Pressures as Primary Driver

Inflation and living costs dominate, pushing climate down Ipsos rankings. In February 2026's Issues Monitor, 59% cited cost-of-living as top worry. Energy prices amplify this: 74% globally worry about rises, with NZ households facing hikes despite renewables push.

Trade-offs emerge—55% back higher costs for energy security. For Kiwis, post-COVID recovery and housing crises dilute focus. Studies link poverty to lower climate prioritization, as survival trumps long-term risks.

Photo by Matthew Stephenson on Unsplash

Climate Fatigue and Media Overload

Constant coverage breeds numbness. Post-2023 events, attention waned as media shifted. Psychological studies describe 'eco-anxiety burnout,' where overload leads to disengagement.

In NZ, surveys show fewer modifications in behavior despite awareness. 62% in 2025 urged individual action, down from 73% in 2022. Solutions include targeted messaging focusing on local benefits like healthier air from renewables.

Policy Implications for New Zealand

Government ratings suffer: only 23% see a clear plan. Emission Reduction Plan faces scrutiny amid declining urgency. Experts urge linking climate to economy—jobs in green tech, cost savings.

Opposition warns of complacency; supporters note steady progress. Public conditional support demands transparent trade-offs. Read analysis in Carbon News.

Stakeholder Perspectives: Businesses and Communities

Businesses face pressure: 56% expect action. NZ firms like Fonterra pivot to low-emission dairy amid pragmatic support. Communities in vulnerable areas (e.g., coastal) remain worried despite national trend.

• Rural farmers prioritize affordability.
• Urban youth push sustainability.
• Māori views emphasize intergenerational duty.

Recent Events and Their Fading Influence

Cyclone Gabrielle spiked concern temporarily; by 2025-2026, it normalized. Ongoing droughts, floods remind, but economic hits overshadow. Resilience building—insurance hikes, adaptation funds—may reduce perceived immediacy.

Expert Views and Research Insights

University of Auckland climate social scientists note fatigue as global, urging behavioral nudges. Victoria University studies link concern to policy trust. Balanced views: while worry falls, actions like EV adoption rise.

Photo by Matthew Stephenson on Unsplash

Future Outlook and Pathways Forward

Projections: concern may stabilize if economy improves, but events could revive. Net zero 2050 needs renewed engagement—education, incentives. Positive: 62% back renewables for air quality.

Actionable Insights for Renewed Engagement

To counter decline:

• Frame benefits: health, jobs.
• Localize risks: sea-level rise for coasts.
• Leverage tech: apps tracking personal carbon.
• Build trust: transparent reporting.

Stakeholders must adapt messaging for a fatigued public.