Lay summary
Much of the health research on climate change in the Pacific is dominated by physical health problems; only recently have the mental health impacts of climate change been recognised. Climate change is predicted to have a substantial negative effect upon global mental health and it is likely that the overall burden of mental disorders worldwide will increase. Climate change has inequitable direct and indirect effects on mental health risks for Pacific peoples. Given that the Pacific is highly vulnerable to natural disasters, there is much to learn in the exploration of the interconnection between climate change and mental health and wellbeing outcomes. Building understandings in this regard for New Zealand is vital, particularly in relation to health service readiness or Pacific peoples. This study involves a mixed methods approach over a 36-month period in research sites in New Zealand, Niue and the Cook Islands.