An outline of the strategic direction and national-level actions that the New Zealand health system will take to adapt to climate change. 

New Zealand’s first Health National Adaptation Plan (HNAP) is a direct response to the growing threat of climate change on human health. It acknowledges the unequal impact of climate change on certain populations, including Māori, Pacific peoples, young people, and those with disabilities. The plan aims to address these inequities by promoting actions that benefit both climate change adaptation and mitigation, such as investing in energy-efficient housing and promoting active transport.

Developed in line with New Zealand’s national climate change legislation and international commitments, the plan lays the groundwork for regional climate health action plans. It emphasizes the role of Māori leadership and knowledge and emphasizes collaboration across government sectors and community partnerships to ensure a holistic approach to climate adaptation.

The HNAP outlines 27 actions under five focus areas.

1. Leadership and governance
2. Social and environmental determinants of health
3. Knowledge and risk assessment
4. Health care service resilience and adaptation
5. Community and whānau leadership.