The Government has released a National Adaptation Framework it says will give people clearer information about climate risks and how they’ll be managed, including a publicly accessible National Flood Map targeted for release next year.

Climate Change Minister Simon Watts said the framework is built around four pillars and 16 actions:

• Risks and response information sharing
• Roles and responsibilities
• Investment in risk reduction
• Cost-sharing before and after events

A key piece of work is the first nationwide flood map showing where flooding is likely now and in future as the climate changes. The Ministry for the Environment is issuing a Request for Information today to draw on local and international expertise, with the first iteration of the map expected before the end of next year.

The Government also plans legislation to require local government to produce adaptation plans in the highest‑priority areas. Watts said the plans are intended to set out the risks, how they’ll be managed, and what investment is expected, so residents “know what to expect.”

The framework brings together new and existing actions across the economy and signals further decisions to come on how costs are shared between central and local government, communities and others. No detail was provided today on how “highest‑priority areas” will be defined, the timing of the legislation, or how cost-sharing will be apportioned.

Watts said the aim is an enduring system that prepares the country for climate impacts, supports growth and reduces overall costs to society.