Meridian Energy
Introduction
DOC and Meridian Energy are partnering together to support the Kākāpō Recovery Programme.
Kākāpō are one of New Zealand’s most endangered species. In 2016, DOC and Meridian Energy joined forces to support the Kākāpō Recovery Programme, a world class conservation initiative to bring back kākāpō from the brink of extinction. From a low of 50 birds in 1995, the population increased to 252 in 2022.
This partnership contributes to the growth of the kākāpō population, by helping DOC to fund research and pioneer conservation techniques relating to genetics, nutrition, disease management and finding new predator free habitat. It also helps raise awareness of the plight of kākāpō.
Meridian’s in-kind support has enabled the installation of energy-efficient solar and electrical systems in breeding facilities and rangers’ huts. This partnership gives Meridian staff the chance to use their engineering skills in a different environment and to experience the remote islands where kākāpō live.
Key to the success of this programme is the strength of Meridian’s partnership with Ngāi Tahu, which continues to foster understanding and support of each other’s views and long-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,” says Tāne Davis, the Ngāi Tahu appointee to the Kākāpō Recovery Group.
