World Cities Day

World Cities Day History

World Cities Day is an annual international observance aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of the role of urbanisation in achieving sustainable development. The observance emphasises the importance of cities as engines for growth, innovation, and social progress. It also encourages collaboration between governments, organisations, and citizens to address urban challenges and to create more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities.

The United Nations General Assembly designated World Cities Day on October 31st, 2014, recognizing the need to deal with the opportunities and challenges that rapid urbanization and the growth of cities presented. For New Zealanders, this event holds particular relevance as more than 86% of the population lives in urban areas, with cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch playing an essential role in driving growth and development. Key urban issues in New Zealand include ensuring affordable housing, managing environmental impacts, improving infrastructure, and promoting community engagement in city planning and local decision-making processes.

In New Zealand, World Cities Day is marked by various events, conferences, and exhibitions organised by government bodies, academic institutions, and non-profit organisations. These activities bring together stakeholders from different sectors to discuss and share ideas on urban development and management. City councils, local communities, and businesses collaborate on projects to improve city environments, foster innovation, and enhance urban areas' overall quality of life. World Cities Day in New Zealand falls on the same date as the global observance, October 31st.

World Cities Day facts

• The theme for World Cities Day in 2025 was Better City, Better Life: Smart Cities for People. In 2024 the theme was Youth Leading Climate and Local Action for Cities. In 2023 the theme was Financing sustainable urban future for all.
• Globally, over 50% of the population lives in urban areas today.
• By 2045, the world’s urban population is expected to increase by 1.5 times to 6 billion.
• Auckland is the largest city by population in New Zealand. It's home to around a third of the country's total population. It is also the country's most multicultural city.
• Known as the Edinburgh of the South, Dunedin is famous for its Scottish heritage and its Victorian and Edwardian architecture. It's also home to the world's steepest residential street, Baldwin Street.

In the News and Trending in NZ for World Cities Day

Top things to do in NZ for World Cities Day

• Take time to reflect on the city you live in. Evaluate the urban development measures and sustainability practices implemented by your local government. Consider how you can contribute to making your city more sustainable and livable.
• Use the day as a prompt to adopt or enhance sustainable habits within your home. Consider practicing water conservation, recycling, composting, or reducing energy consumption. Explore sustainable transportation options and encourage others to do the same.