A Future in Fifteen Minutes

Words by Xandi Gobbi of GovernMentality Podcast (he/him)

Sorry deniers, unfortunately climate change is very real and here to stay. The flooding in Auckland was a wake up call. Climate change is forcing us to reimagine our lives in a transition to a low-carbon future. In Wellington, we’re trying to improve public transport, adding in more cycle lanes, and banning cars from the Golden Mile. 

But is it enough? Instead of just rethinking how we get around, should we go further? Should we redesign our cities?

Enter 15 minute cities.

Promising a radical rethink of the way our cities are laid out, the idea is simple. Imagine a world where everything you need is just a stone's throw away. Picture yourself strolling along tree-lined streets, with your workplace, grocery store, park, and favourite café all within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from your front door. This is the essence of a 15-minute city. 

Such cities could be the key to a greener future. By prioritising walking, cycling, and public transportation, 15-minute cities actively combat air pollution, reduce emissions, and create cleaner, more sustainable communities. Embracing 15-minute cities means taking a significant step towards a healthier planet.

This is all about convenience—ensuring that your daily needs are met within a short distance from your home. No more hours wasted in gridlocked cars or crowded buses. Need to grab groceries or run errands? No problem! Everything is just a quick walk away.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of 15-minute cities is their ability to foster a strong sense of community. By designing urban spaces that prioritise human interaction and social connection, these cities create opportunities for neighbours to engage with one another. Vibrant neighbourhood centres, green spaces, and public amenities become the beating heart of these communities, fostering a profound sense of belonging.

It is no wonder then that this idea is getting traction in cities around the world, from Melbourne to Paris. Even though turning Wellington into a 15-minute city may not be immediately feasible, it provides us with a framework for thinking about how we allocate resources in our community. One such example would be creating a public high school in Karori instead of kids having to commute into the city.

For more on how the climate is affecting this upcoming election, check out GovernMentality wherever you get your podcasts!