Since 2012, Air New Zealand and the Department of Conservation have had a partnership to protect and enhance New Zealand’s natural environment.
Words: Lara Wyatt
In 2016, the partnership between Air New Zealand and the Department of Conservation (DOC) was extended out to 2022. As DOC’s National Partner for Conservation, Air New Zealand has transported more than 3,000 threatened species and conservation dogs around the country. This includes kiwi, kakapo, kaka, tuatara and many, many more.
Under the partnership, Air New Zealand provides funding for conservation work such as trapping, monitoring and ecosystem maintenance across day walks, short walks and great walks of New Zealand. The assistance provided goes towards maintaining and restoring New Zealand’s native wildlife and threatened species, as well as marine sciences.
As well as the financial assistance and flights, Air New Zealand offers on-the-ground support with around 3,000 staff volunteers, known as the Air New Zealand Greenteam, some of whom work alongside DOC and community groups to help New Zealand’s native wildlife.
Watch the short video below of a recent Air New Zealand flight that was put on specially to transport 18 takahē to their new home in Gouland Downs in the Kahurangi National Park.
Find out more about Air New Zealand’s work with the Department of Conservation at airnewzealand.co.nz/doc.
