Local Government New Zealand says councils are already bearing the brunt of climate change

Parliament's cross-party finance committee inquiry has heard submissions on setting up a climate adaptation framework.

Part of its goal is figuring out how to share the responsibility and cost for adapting to risks like increased storms and rising sea levels.

Gisborne Mayor, Rehette Stoltz , says there needs to be nationally-led direction, rather than dictated measures - because councils and communities are best placed to determine which adaptations will work for them,.