Auckland Council was launched five years ago, on 1 November 2010. This article examines the planning framework set in place to enable the growth of Auckland over the next 30 years. The author was chief planning officer of Auckland Council from its inauguration until mid-2015. It therefore gives an insider’s view on the framework, which may aid wider understanding in the policy community. The author has also had the opportunity since leaving the council to reflect on what has been learned, and the hurdles still to be cleared. The premise that Auckland’s success is critical to New Zealand’s success underpins this article.
The Paris Agreement of 12 December 2015 was an important political step forward for the planet. It is a statement of commitment by 185 nations to limit global warming to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels. Most nations also signed up to ‘the intent to pursue a 1.5°C target’. On its own this does not deliver the target. The challenge now for New Zealand is to dramatically lift the pace from the slow progress of the past 25 years. To do our ‘fair share’ we need a comprehensive policy framework and agreed actions for transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
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