Tauranga Carbon Reduction Group is calling on the public to attend a People's Climate March in Tauranga tomorrow.
The peaceful march starts at 1.30pm on the corner of 4th Ave and Devonport Rd as world leaders gather in Paris next week to finalise agreements addressing climate change.
People around the world are organising marches this weekend to let the leaders know of their level of concern and commitment, and to demonstrate support for an effective agreement.
The Tauranga march is organised by local GP and mother of three Margie Mollison, who is also a member of the Tauranga Carbon Reduction Group - a group dedicated to minimising the carbon emissions in this country and stopping the degradation of our environment
Mrs Mollison said she was inspired to organise the march due to her grave concerns about the rapid impacts of climate change not just seen in New Zealand but globally.
"Despite our clean, green image, New Zealand is not doing enough to reduce our carbon emissions.
"When you read about this stuff, it's frightening. I've become increasing worried what the impacts will be in 20 to 30 years time if we don't do something right now."
Mrs Mollison said the peaceful march which would go ahead rain or shine. The march culminates with a gathering at Edgewater Fan on The Strand.
"It's not just the national or international community leaders who need to take effective action, but as individuals we can all do something to reduce our own carbon footprint," she said.
Information on activities in New Zealand and around the world can be found at https://secure.avaaz.org/en/event/globalclimatemarch.