Since 2016, DOC and Meridian Energy have teamed up to protect and support the kākāpō, one of New Zealand’s most critically endangered species. Since the beginning of the partnership the kākāpō population has more than doubled, reaching a high of 252 birds in 2022.
Meridian Energy is the national partner of the Kākāpō Recovery Programme, a world-class conservation initiative led by DOC alongside Treaty Partner Ngāi Tahu. It’s a true team effort with iwi, scientists, rangers, volunteers, donors, and partners all working together to protect this taonga species. From monitoring and health checks to predator control and breeding management, every action counts.
Meridian’s support of the Programme goes beyond funding. Their expertise and in-kind contributions have powered energy-efficient solar and electrical systems in breeding facilities and ranger’s huts on the remote kākāpō islands.
"Since 2016, Meridian has been privileged to stand with DOC and Ngāi Tahu in supporting the Kākāpō Recovery Programme.
Protecting our environment matters to us, and we’re committed and proud to help share the story of the kākāpō with New Zealanders.
It’s wonderful to see that, together, our efforts are paying off and the kākāpō population is now the strongest it’s been in decades."
– Meridian CEO Mike Roan
Key to the success of this programme is the strength of Meridian’s relationship with Ngāi Tahu, which continues to foster understanding and support of each other’slong-term aspirations.
"Kākāpō are treasured by Ngāi Tahu as a taonga species, they are part of our tribal identity and it’s wonderful to see that Meridian values them too.”
– Tāne Davis, the Ngāi Tahu appointee to the Kākāpō Recovery Group
To find out more, visit the Meridian website.
Interested in partnering with DOC?
Let’s work together to help protect what makes Aotearoa New Zealand unique.