Using the law to ensure a better future
We’re legal experts driving effective action in New Zealand against climate change.
climate change will cause global catastrophe
Unless we cut emissions now and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
The law is one of the most powerful tools for responding to the climate crisis. We use the law to accelerate climate action, hold governments and polluting companies to account, and ultimately create systemic change.
7+
Legal challenges and complaints
400+
Members
2500+
Hours of pro & low-bono lawyers’ time
In 2019, we began as a small group of lawyers who saw a gap for effective climate legal advocacy in New Zealand
Today, we have a small team and 400-strong membership that includes barristers, solicitors, and legal academics from all over New Zealand with specialist expertise in many different areas of the law.
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Jenny Cooper KC
CO-FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT
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Dr James Every-Palmer KC
CO-FOUNDER AND BOARD MEMBER
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Jessica Palairet
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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Sophie Meares
BOARD SECRETARY
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Dr Bjørn-Oliver Magsig
BOARD MEMBER
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Debra Dorrington
BOARD MEMBER
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Sally Gepp KC
BOARD MEMBER
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Martin Smith
TREASURER
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Majka Cherrington
BOARD MEMBER
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Bryce Lyall
BOARD MEMBER
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Frankie McKeefry
BOARD MEMBER
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Nicola Hedge
BOARD MEMBER
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Molly McDouall
SOLICITOR
LATEST News & INSIGHTS
What we do
Climate Litigation
We bring strategic climate litigation that shifts the dial on climate action and accountability
Law Reform
We advocate for strong climate laws and policies to ensure New Zealand meets its climate obligations and protects generations to come
Education
We bring together and educate the legal community, running webinars and events, and publishing thought leadership on key issues
Connect communities to lawyers
We connect communities from across Aotearoa with pro and low bono lawyers, providing legal muscle to climate action and increasing access to justice
Help us make a bigger impact today
Join our community of nearly 400 members and receive monthly updates on our work, the opportunity to contribute, and connect with other members. Lawyers for Climate Action NZ Inc. is a New Zealand registered charity and is not for profit