Our Leadership Group news

March 2026 discussion

The Leadership Group discussed the evolving role of the Forum and its LG as it approaches  incorporation, reflecting on how its responsibilities may need to shift. Participants broadly agreed that governance and stewardship should remain the group’s primary focus, while also recognising the Forum’s unique community-driven leadership model. There was also acknowledgement that incorporation will require clearer definitions of roles, particularly in relation to local council representatives and the Forum’s broader governance structure.

The group also reviewed the draft Strategic Plan and priorities for 2026 and discussed how it could better guide the Forum’s work. Members suggested simplifying the document, clarifying key concepts, and ensuring it reflects the Forum’s role as a catalyst and connector for community-led climate initiatives rather than a driver of all projects. The plan will be revised based on feedback and brought back to a future meeting.

Updates were also shared on progress toward incorporation, including the drafting of a constitution and the need to clarify whether incorporation will involve separating from the Forum’s current umbrella organisation.

Finally, the group confirmed support for a new application to the Nelson City Council’s partnership grant to continue Swap One and Travel Fresh community climate projects, and agreed to move forward with the dates for the next Climate Action Festival in September, those dates being from the 18th to the 26th of September.

 

February 2026 discussion

The first meeting of the year opened with an opportunity for members to get acquainted or reconnect, share their values, and reflect on the role of the Leadership Group in advancing climate action across the region.

An update was provided on Council’s current mitigation and adaptation efforts, including the transition to a fully electric bus fleet, investment in solar on council buildings, and progress on the East–West Cycleway. Adaptation initiatives are also moving forward, landslide recovery work, and improvements to emergency preparedness systems such as rain radar. Collaboration between councils through a new Joint Climate Change Group was highlighted, alongside upcoming responsibilities linked to national planning reforms and the next long-term plan.

The Forum also reviewed its structure, achievements, and the work of its active groups. Highlights from the past year included progress on transport behaviour change campaigns, major community events like Climate Action Festival, collaboration on local climate strategy, and exploration of Incorporation as an independent charitable entity for the Forum. Active projects span advocacy and policy, community action, and education and engagement—ranging from repair cafés and waste minimisation initiatives to youth leadership programmes, food strategy collaboration, and newly formed adaptation efforts. Members emphasised that participation in these groups remains open and that strengthening coordination and visibility will be key to future impact.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on a proposed new strategic framework consolidating existing priorities into three interconnected pillars. The draft positions the region as operating in ecological overshoot and calls for action that supports policy change, empowers community initiatives, and builds resilience. Members discussed refining the framing of the problem, ensuring attention to democracy and equity, clarifying language around partnerships and catalysing action, and aligning with intergenerational thinking. With an election year approaching, there was recognition of the need to raise public awareness and hold decision-makers accountable. The strategy will be revised and shared with the goal of adoption at the next Leadership Group meeting before being brought out to the members at a future Hui.

 

November 2025 discussion

The Climate Action Festival (16–25 October) was a major highlight this season, with 41 events across the region, including activities in Tasman, Golden Bay, and atop Takaka Hill. Supported by 36 community partners and covered in local media and radio, the Festival drew over 1,100 participants. Despite a modest budget of a bit over $7000, the event delivered outstanding impact thanks to significant extra hours from staff and strong community collaboration.

A central discussion focused on the Forum’s future structure. Members weighed the benefits of remaining under TET’s umbrella against becoming an independent Incorporated Society. While incorporation could open more funding opportunities and reduce overheads, it would also bring new administrative responsibilities. The group expressed broad support with reservations, agreeing to consult members at the End-of-Year Hui on 29 November before making a final decision.

The Forum also endorsed (with abstention from TDC) the Tomorrow Together Charter, affirming its commitment to youth participation and collaboration across Te Tauihu.

Council updates noted new climate strategy work in Tasman and continued alignment with Nelson’s efforts.

Project reports celebrated ongoing progress: Swap One continues to grow, Take the Jump is entering a refreshed phase, Nature and Climate is engaging with policymakers, and the Nelson Repair Café is seeking new funding to continue. The Nelson Timebank will launch officially at the November Hui, and the Takaka–Collingwood Pathway had a successful soft opening.

 

October 2025 discussion

Preparations are well underway for the upcoming Climate Action Festival, featuring more than 30 events across Golden Bay, Motueka, and Nelson. Members are encouraged to act as Forum Ambassadors by attending and promoting events, particularly the opening on 16 October.

The group reviewed progress on the ongoing discussions about the Forum’s organisational structure. Consultations with stakeholders are nearly complete, and a recommendation will be presented at the next Leadership Group meeting before going to the full Forum for a final decision in late November.

Members also considered signing the Tomorrow Together Charter, noting strong alignment with the Forum’s values but agreeing to defer endorsement for a month to gather more background information. It was confirmed that Leadership Group minutes will now be published on the Forum’s website to enhance transparency. The group also endorsed the development of a Code of Conduct to reflect the Forum’s shared values and ensure it is included in any future constitution.

Discussions highlighted the need for additional volunteer support in key areas such as fundraising, communications, and adaptation. The group emphasised collaboration with councils and community organisations to strengthen climate resilience and ensure local actions complement wider initiatives. Council and project updates covered progress on adaptation planning, biodiversity, emission reduction initiatives, and community engagement activities, including the successful launch of Swap One, developments in the Repair Café network, and the ongoing 8.3% emissions reduction project.