Dr Cathrine Dyer to Speak at the WAO Summit 2025

The WAO Summit 2025 is bringing some of New Zealand’s brightest minds together to spark local conversations about global challenges — and one of those voices is Dr Cathrine Dyer, Lecturer in Climate Change at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington.

Dr Dyer will take the stage at the “Your Climate Wake Up Call” hero event, exploring the urgent realities of our changing climate and the role communities like Wānaka can play in driving meaningful change.

With a background in both science and communication, Dr Dyer’s work focuses on making climate information practical and empowering — helping people move from awareness to action. Her talk will unpack how small, everyday shifts in behaviour and local policy can add up to major progress when it comes to reducing emissions and building resilience.

She says the challenge isn’t just about understanding climate science — it’s about connecting that science to the human stories behind it.

“Climate change can feel overwhelming, but every community has the power to act. The key is turning information into action — and hope into momentum.”

The WAO Summit runs in Wānaka this October, featuring a packed schedule of workshops, films, and keynotes focused on sustainability, innovation, and community leadership. The “Your Climate Wake Up Call” event promises to be one of the week’s most powerful sessions — a rallying point for anyone who wants to be part of the solution.

For tickets, programme details, and event times, visit wao.co.nz