March for Nature 2026

Went along to the March for Nature.

35 000 marched down Queen St. It was a glorious reminder of people power as we stumble into the most important election in our lives.

The extraordinary stripping out of environmental values and Māori consultation for big polluter interests is naked under this Government.

The recent example of Todd Energy getting first bite of the Government’s $200m Gas and Oil Slush fund and who also happen to be big donors to the National Party, highlights the stark corruption we face.

The ease with which corporate influence strangles the common good for their interests should be shameful in this country.

But it will never lead Seven Sharp.

That’s why the march matters.

That’s why the feeling collective action generates matters.

That’s why solidarity matters.

The speakers showed the true calibre of us as a community.

Dr Russel Norman is one of the most important voices of real intellectual weight we have on the Left when it comes to climate change. His activism and unflinching leadership is needed now more than ever. His brutal assessment of the

Richard Capie is the Group Manager, Policy & Advocacy for Forest & Bird. Their maps showing how much land was under threat by commercialisation under this Government forced a change in debate. Their understanding of how the policy will manifest matters.

Augusta Macassey-Piccard spoke for Coromandel Watchdog of Hauraki. These are the OG of the protest Community. They deserve mad respect and aroma for their longevity and point blank refusal to allow Big Polluters to damage the land. Great seeing Catherine Delahunty leading the chants! We respect the planet by respecting the old protestors and give them our support always.

In a field of stars, it was difficult to shine but wow was Gabrielle Brayne from Anti-War Aotearoa an incredible orator. She presented a passionate and radical appraisal of where we find ourselves and demanded respect from the power of her argument. She is a star.

Aigagalefili Fepulea’i-Tapua’i from Aotearoa Climate Action Network reminded us that climate change is having an

And finally, the really show the true calibre of the day, Climate Activist Mike Smith. To include an activist of Mike’s unique standing speaks to the values of the community.

We must rise against this terrible Government and its appalling war on nature.