Engaging with communities for climate change adaptation: Introducing Community Development for Adaptation

Abstract

Many of New Zealand’s urban settlements are likely to be impacted by climate-induced hazards such as sea level rise, coastal erosion, flooding and rising groundwater levels, and some are already being affected. These communities face many physical, social, financial and emotional challenges, and there is significant potential for inequitable outcomes. To ensure successful adaptation, local authorities will need to adopt new approaches to engaging with communities that are exposed to these hazards.