New Zealand’s government has passed legislation to dismantle the Ministry for the Environment and fold its functions into a broader new body—the MCERT mega-ministry, which will oversee housing, urban development, transport, and the environment.

The move, supported by the centre-right National Party and its coalition partners, aims to streamline administration but has drawn fierce criticism from the Greens and Labour.

Critics argue the change risks weakening environmental protections amid concerns about climate change, freshwater and biodiversity outcomes, and accountability.

Environment Minister Nicola Grigg argues the reform is a structural shift rather than a policy retreat, noting that the Environment Act of 1986 and the ministerial advisory roles would remain in some form.Public submissions reportedly opposed the merger, and the Environmental Select Committee provided limited consideration before advancing the bill.

Proponents say merging departments could improve efficiency by tackling interconnected issues such as emissions, land use, and infrastructure in a unified framework.The bill has cleared multiple readings and now awaits formal assent by the governor-general.

The broader political context includes ongoing rollbacks in conservation funding and policy shifts under the current government, alongside contested measures affecting offshore oil and gas exploration and climate resilience initiatives.

The outcome will shape New Zealand’s environmental governance for years to come, with stakeholders urging stronger protections and clear accountability frameworks.