This article was written by Joel Patterson, 15 years old, Next Generation Conversation, Ōtautahi Christchurch. Published December 2025.
We make better decisions together
From the 27th of September to the 29th, I was lucky enough to be a part of a group of 32 rangatahi that met up in Mistletoe Bay, an eco-village in the Marlborough Sounds, to discuss the present and future of our climate.
The two youth climate advocacy groups involved, Next Generation Conversation from Ōtautahi Christchurch and Lighthouse Aotearoa from Te Tauihu Nelson-Tasman, were able to meet, share, and brainstorm together.
Through three workshops, we came up with a list of key ideas that we want to see local and national governments address. The first workshop, run by Keegan and Caitlin, was designed to build connections and outline values and visions between our two groups. Shared focuses include climate literacy, education, and innovative ways to tackle climate change.
Ollie and Bronte ran the second one, focused on why children must be included in climate discussions. Excluding young people would have negative effects, especially for long-term problems that might only affect future generations.
The third workshop, led by Iona, Jenni, and me, was all about consolidating the ideas from the previous two workshops and creating a ‘Wall of Demands’ for local representatives. The session included a simulated version of councillors working for their local constituents.
There was also plenty of time to get out into nature. A walk up the Onahau Lookout Track was the highlight for many, reaching a beautiful lookout over the Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru, and Mahau Sounds.
During downtime, we played games outside, went kayaking, or took a polar plunge into the cold water. On the second night, a ‘Climate Express Concert’ was hosted, with some members performing in the form of instrument playing, spoken poetry, singing, and improv comedy, with a focus on the climate.
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Don’t wait until we’re older to take us seriously!
Overall, common themes and ideas that came through included climate education for all, fair representation, and intergenerational equity.
Many of us felt frustrated at the lack of recognition from those in positions of power, who weren’t listening to our demands and not trying to help.
Long term planning and solutions as well as a diversity of viewpoints are essential for tackling the massive issue facing people in our neighbourhoods, our cities, our country, and even the whole world.
Personally, I found it inspiring that all over the country there are people who care about these issues and are willing to do what it takes to solve them. It also helped me to view things from different perspectives. Our two groups hope to meet up again next year, and in the meantime work to take on the climate change issue.
Reflections from other students
“For me, the camp represented us as unique individuals coming together to support each other and the climate - it also gave me hope, 'cause it’s good to know there’s others out there.” – Genevieve, 14
”I think the most empowering thing about the camp was that when like-minded, driven people come together with a shared purpose, we don’t just make plans, we lay the foundations of something lasting, something that has impact built by them, who believe it more than themselves and act for the good of others” - Iona, 14
“The camp was fantastic! I had the best time. It was great to meet and hangout with the Christchurch group. The workshops were fun and informative. I would love to see these held once a year.” – Nate, 14
“Connecting with nature was such an empowering feeling, seeing nature up close gives you a sense of what a wonderful world we are living in.” - Xavier, 13
“Being with people who care and act about climate change makes you really appreciate nature and earth!” - Ben, 11
“When you leave a beautiful place, you take it with you.” - Emma, 14
“For me, this camp represented that there is hope for our wonderful planet, and that we can make a difference by working together with the like-minded young people I met at the camp, and the others that we are sure to meet along the way." – TK, 14
“I love being part of the Next Generation Conversation because we get to have lots of opportunities that we wouldn't get otherwise.” - Lumi, 11
"The Climate Futures Summit was a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with like-minded people about issues we are passionate about. As someone who has recently become more active in climate change activities, I found it to be a great learning opportunity." – Jenni, 17
“Taking part in the school programme and camp made me feel like I could make a difference in the face of the crisis, rather than it’s happening, and I don’t know what to do.” - Amy, 14
“People’s mindsets need to shift about climate change. Making it “an actual subject” at school would give children the information they needed to help make change.” - Cadence, 14
“Laughs and a good time; Memories forever; Cherished a long time.” - Kayleigh, 13
Acknowledgements
Huge thanks to Joel for writing this story and to all the students from Next Generation Conversation and Lighthouse Aotearoa for sharing your experiences so openly.
Thanks to Sian Carvell and Will Stovall for organising and facilitating the Climate Futures Summit, with generous funding support from the Climate Change Learning Programme, New Zealand Association for Environmental Education (NZAEE), Nelson City and Tasman District Councils, Quakers Aotearoa, and Mistletoe Foundation. We would also like to acknowledge KiwiRail, Beachcomber Cruises, and Bowater Toyota for recognising the value of the work and providing free or heavily discounted transportation. Finally, Kai Rescue and Salvitos Pizza supported us with a large volume of delicious food, which, as we know, is integral to the wellbeing of teenagers and those in their orbit.
Related Articles and Resources
Climate Change Learning Programme resources are available for Aotearoa NZ teachers to use with ākonga aged 10-14.
Climate Change Course: Empowering Communities for Action, is a great online learning resource for educators / adults and available at no cost for NZ residents.
Climate Education: A Teacher’s Perspective
Young People’s Voices in Community Decision Making
Te Waka a Māui: A Climate Education Journey
