Rolling the dice on climate change

Developed by NIWA and used by councils across Te Taitokerau, a series of “serious games” support climate change understanding and decision-making for all ages.

The games, available online or as physical board games, place players in a fictional town that is increasingly affected by the impacts of climate change.

Players must make decisions about their property, community spaces, ways to reduce exposure, and other strategies for adaptation.

Real-life scenarios, decisions and implications are combined with science to help players understand how climate change will impact us now and, in the future, and the actions we can take to be more resilient.

Games explore river flooding, sea level rise, and drought scenarios.

Why learn through the games? 

Understanding climate change and its effect on our lives, homes, and communities, is not easy. For some, science is complex, for others the concept is simply too scary to face!

That’s why it’s crucial to communicate climate and science in a way that is engaging and easy to understand.

Learning through games has huge benefits for tamariki and adults alike. Aside from overcoming a real-life challenge in a safe and educational environment, these games also encourage:

• Problem solving
• Engagement
• Critical thinking
• Collaboration

Play these games online or at council stalls during events like A&P shows and Waitangi Day.

Whether virtual or in-person, they spark meaningful discussions and inspire action for a sustainable future. Get involved-the power of play drives change!