ClimateWise provides free tools and resources to help businesses reduce risks, uncover opportunities, and build long-term resilience.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s economy, making up 98.8 per cent of all businesses. But as climate change accelerates, SMEs face growing challenges—from extreme weather disrupting operations to rising costs associated with climate risks.
As climate risks continue to increase, businesses need to plan for the future. Climate adaptation is not just about managing risk—it’s also about building resilience and unlocking new opportunities. Businesses that take proactive steps can reduce costs, strengthen supply chains, attract investment, and gain a competitive edge in a low-carbon economy.
To support SMEs in this transition, Climate Connect Aotearoa has launched ClimateWise—a free platform designed to help businesses understand, prepare for, and respond to climate change in ways that build both resilience and opportunity.
Why ClimateWise?
Many SMEs want to take action but struggle with limited time, information or resources to make informed decisions. ClimateWise was developed to bridge this gap, offering practical, easy-to-use tools that help businesses at any stage of their adaptation journey.
"Climate change poses risks to businesses, but it also presents new opportunities—whether through cost-saving efficiencies, accessing new markets or strengthening long-term business viability. ClimateWise is designed to make adaptation more accessible so SMEs can feel supported to take action," says Sarah Anderson, Programme Director at Climate Connect Aotearoa.
Charlotte Kootstra, Sustainability Manager for Climate and Environment at Sustainable Business Council, a key partner in the project, emphasises the growing importance of climate preparedness in supply chains: "Suppliers with a climate adaptation plan signal to their customers that there is a lower risk of disruption to the flow of products or services, particularly during adverse weather events."
What ClimateWise offers
ClimateWise is a user-friendly online platform that brings together key information to help SMEs navigate climate risks and identify opportunities.
Key features:
- Practical tools – Step-by-step guidance to assess and manage climate risks an identify opportunities.
- Expert insights – Clear, accessible information on climate impacts, insights from te ao Māori and adaptation strategies.
- Real-world case studies – Stories from SMEs who have experienced climate events and those already taking action.
- Tailored resources – Industry-specific guidance to help businesses turn challenges into opportunities.
Developed with SMEs, experts and business networks
ClimateWise was developed after extensive engagement across industries and in collaboration with climate resilience experts and business networks, including:
Auckland Council, Tonkin + Taylor, Sustainable Business Network, BusinessNZ, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), Ministry for the Environment, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, Sustainable Business Council, National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), University of Auckland and Auckland Emergency Management.
Engagement and workshops with SMEs, including Māori and Pacific businesses, helped shape the platform to ensure it meets real-world business needs.
"Collaboration was key in shaping ClimateWise. We engaged with SMEs, pakihi Māori and business networks to understand the barriers they face and how adaptation can align with their goals—whether that’s securing supply chains, reducing costs, or by incorporating te ao Māori (the Māori world view) into adaptation strategies," says Anderson.
Who is ClimateWise for?
ClimateWise is designed for any SME looking to future-proof their business, whether they are just starting to consider climate adaptation or already taking steps to build resilience.
The platform is particularly valuable for:
• Business owners looking for clear, practical steps to understand and manage climate risks and find efficiencies.
• Industry groups and business networks wanting to support their members with up-to-date climate resilience resources.
Explore ClimateWise today
For more information, get in touch with the team.
