Accelerating Net-Zero: Unlocking New Zealand’s climate potential
New Zealand stands at a pivotal juncture in its climate journey. With a highly renewable electricity grid as a strong foundation, New Zealand is positioned to lead a successful transition to a low-emissions economy. But while the starting point is promising, the path ahead is complex and demands coordinated, decisive action.
This report, informed by a recent Deloitte Asia Pacific report, Accelerating Net-Zero: Critical Opportunities in Asia Pacific's Climate Policy, examines New Zealand’s distinct advantages and most pressing challenges against four key pillars: future fuels, critical minerals, batteries, and industrial transformation. It provides five targeted recommendations to secure a prosperous, resilient, and net-zero future for Aotearoa New Zealand.
New Zealand has the foundational elements for a successful climate transition, largely due to its highly renewable electricity grid.
However, significant challenges remain. The country faces an impending natural gas shortage, uncertainty that dampens private investment, limited infrastructure for circular technologies like batteries, and ongoing debates around mineral extraction.
To meet its Nationally Determined Contribution and achieve net-zero by 2050, New Zealand must shift from ambition to action. This requires a coordinated policy suite that supports investment, creates markets for low-emissions goods, and provides long-term certainty for industry.
Infrastructure development and energy market reform are critical, especially as electricity demand rises amid a cost-of-living crisis. New Zealand’s reliance on imported low-carbon technologies adds complexity, and global pressures are intensifying.
This report outlines the strategic steps needed to overcome these challenges and unlock economic opportunity. With enduring policy, cross-sector collaboration, and targeted incentives, New Zealand can build a resilient, low-emissions economy that delivers prosperity for future generations.
The path forward
The report outlines five recommendations for New Zealand to accelerate its net-zero ambitions:
- Accelerate policy and regulation
- Establish sector strategies and institutions
- Develop new markets
- Remove barriers to growth
- Foster regional cooperation
Read the report for a comprehensive outline of opportunities, challenges, and recommendations, and get in touch with our experts to discuss the findings further.
