New Zealand’s Climate Change Commission warns that progress on reducing emissions is stalling, with 2024 showing little improvement and key budgets and the 2030 biogenic methane target at high risk. The pace of reductions would need to more than double in the next few years to meet targets, and the window to act is shrinking as the third budget and 2050 goals become harder to reach. A major critique across the reports is that current policies—such as the dismantling of the GIDI scheme, fragile confidence in the emissions trading scheme, and the decision not to proceed with methane pricing—are insufficient to deliver the necessary cuts. While some measures like extending EV incentives, road pricing for trucks, and potential home energy financing are discussed, barriers such as upfront costs and policy timing hamper adoption and cost savings for households and businesses. The commissions emphasize that the government must implement targeted financing, clearer signals, and better information within the next 12 to 24 months to avert missing multiple targets and to avoid rising energy costs for households. Overall, the findings portray a consistent warning that time is running out and more durable, comprehensive action is required across sectors to meet New Zealand’s climate ambitions.