Towards a Just Climate Adaptation Framework in Aotearoa New Zealand: Ensuring Transparency and Fair Fund Allocation

Despite substantial efforts, the New Zealand Parliament’s Finance and Expenditure Committee highlighted in its October 2024 inquiry that further work is needed to fully develop the climate adaptation framework. The climate adaptation framework will outline the government’s strategy for allocating the available funds to cover the costs of adaptation and climate-related losses. The aim of this study is to develop a just and transparent framework for fund allocation which is crucial to enhancing resilience and sustainability in Aotearoa New Zealand. To achieve this, a theory-driven methodology grounded in principles of justice, transparency, and indigenous rights was applied. Drawing on Rawls’ theory of justice, Sen’s capability approach, and environmental justice theory, the research evaluated the fairness principles that were then adopted in the development of a just fund allocation framework. The analysis also incorporated the Treaty of Waitangi principles, emphasizing Māori partnership, participation, and protection. Through an analysis of existing fund allocation mechanisms and international best practices, the research further identified key factors that contribute to effective and just allocation. Based on these insights, the proposed framework rests on four interconnected pillars: (1) Equity-centred allocation, which prioritizes vulnerable communities based on exposure and need; (2) Capability-enhancing design, which ensures funding empowers communities to achieve adaptation goals; (3) Participatory and procedural mechanisms, guaranteeing inclusive, transparent, and culturally appropriate decision-making; and (4) Indigenous-led governance, embedding Māori leadership and legal mandates for co-governance. Together, these pillars establish a fund allocation model that is just, resilient, and responsive to the diverse realities of climate risk across Aotearoa NZ.