PremiumJamie EnsorChief Political Reporter·NZ Herald·20 Jul, 2026 04:54 AM5 mins to read‌Changes to when the climate impacts of policies are assessed have recently come into effect after decisions by Cabinet, which includes Climate Change Minister Simon Watts (left) and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.

Photo / Mark MitchellThe Government has changed the criteria for what triggers ministers to receive assessments of the climate impacts of policy proposals. Climate Change Minister Simon Watts said the changes will ensure ministers receive information on the policy proposals “most relevant to New Zealand’s climate commitments and emissions budgets”.

However,