The Canterbury Mayoral Forum has approved Our Energy Future: a regional approach to energy in Waitaha | Canterbury, a Strategic Framework to guide coordinated regional action on energy.
The Framework sets out a shared vision, outcomes, and strategic priorities for Canterbury’s energy future. It gives the region’s energy strategy its overall direction and backs a resilient, affordable, and sustainable energy system, one that draws on Canterbury’s strengths to support the economy, empower communities, protect the environment and safeguard the wellbeing of future generations.
Our Energy Future aligns with the Mayoral Forum’s Plan for Canterbury, including its goals of an equitable transition to a low-emissions, renewable energy future, sustainable and inclusive economic growth, and climate-resilience. It also supports the Forum’s commitment to fostering partnerships and advocating for better security and systems in the region.
The Framework was developed with councils, mana whenua, energy sector organisations, businesses, economic development agencies and other regional partners. It builds on the Canterbury Energy Inventory 2025 and the expertise and feedback those partners contributed.
The next stage is the development of an Energy Action Plan, which will translate the Framework’s direction into practical actions and opportunities for coordinated regional action. Work on the Action Plan is well advanced, with publication aimed for the end of 2026.
Together, the Framework and Action Plan will provide a foundation for ongoing regional collaboration on energy.
“Energy security is fundamental to Canterbury’s prosperity, resilience, and wellbeing. It underpins the region’s key sectors, from agriculture and manufacturing to tourism and emerging industries. The Strategic Framework on Energy recognises the opportunities for Canterbury to lead in sustainable energy, attract investment and innovation, and contribute to the wider South Island and New Zealand energy landscape. The Mayoral Forum acknowledges and thanks everyone who has contributed to its development. This collective effort reflects the importance of working together to understand Canterbury’s energy opportunities and challenges, and to support a resilient, secure, and low-emissions energy future.”
Canterbury Mayoral Forum Chair Nigel Bowen
