GLOW Principles

We ask that all participants in the programme commit to backing these principles, should they be elected:

Climate Action for a Zero-Carbon Future
  • Embedding climate impact assessments in all council decisions.

  • Committing to a clear emissions reduction plan for council operations and the wider community.

  • Expanding urban tree coverage and restoring native ecosystems to improve biodiversity and carbon sequestration.

  • Supporting waste reduction initiatives, including circular economy policies and community composting programs.

Sustainable and Accessible Housing & Urban Design
  • Increasing medium- and high-density housing in well-connected areas to reduce urban sprawl.

  • Reforming zoning laws to allow for more affordable, energy-efficient housing near jobs and public transport.

  • Strengthening building codes to require better insulation, electrification, and energy efficiency in homes.

  • Supporting affordable, community-led housing developments and co-housing initiatives.

Increasing Access to Public and Active Transport
  • Expanding frequent, reliable, and affordable public transport services, especially in under served areas.

  • Investing in safer cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, including protected bike lanes and car-free zones.

  • Prioritizing the reallocation of road space to public transport, cycling, and walking

  • Advocating for integrated transport planning that reduces car dependency and emissions.


Community-Owned & Renewable Energy
  • Supporting the development of community-owned solar, wind, and microgrid projects.

  • Transitioning council buildings and infrastructure to 100% renewable energy.

  • Ensuring councils provide energy efficiency incentives for households and businesses.

  • Opposing fossil fuel expansion and advocating for a just transition away from high-emission industries

Building Climate Resilience in Communities
  • Strengthening protections for flood-prone areas and ensuring climate adaptation is prioritized in urban planning.

  • Investing in water conservation, storm water management, and local food resilience.

  • Ensuring councils have emergency preparedness plans for extreme weather events.

  • Supporting community gardens, urban farms, and local food networks to reduce reliance on emissions-intensive supply chains.


Embedding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Indigenous Climate Leadership
  • Partnering with iwi and hapū on climate resilience and environmental restoration projects.

  • Ensuring Māori land and resource rights are upheld in council decision-making, and incorporate Māori wards..

  • Funding initiatives led by Māori and Pasifika communities for climate adaptation and sustainability.

  • Recognizing and applying mātauranga Māori (traditional knowledge) in climate and conservation policies.