The time of year for families across New Zealand to switch their lights off for an hour is fast approaching, and the North Shore City Council is once again getting behind the important Earth Hour initiative.

North Shore Mayor Andrew Williams is encouraging all residents to switch their lights out for one hour from 8.30pm on Saturday 27 March to take a stand in support of our environment, and against the associated effects of climate change.

"This is a small but significant step that unites us as a city, a nation and globally to support living more sustainably and being more accountable for our actions and the effect they may have on our precious environment," says Mayor Williams.

New Zealand will be the first of over 70 countries worldwide to switch off its lights for Earth Hour. Last year's event saw over 1.5 million Kiwis, amongst hundreds of millions of people across the world taking part - all making a global statement that immediate and decisive action must be taken to address the impacts of climate change.

Individuals and businesses can sign up to participate in Earth Hour at www.earthhour.org.nz where they can also view an inspiring three minute video to learn more.

For information on how you can continue to reduce your family's carbon emissions and other sustainable living options, contact the Sustainability Advice Line on 0800 326 628 (ECOMAT).