BNZ save the kiwi
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In 1991 the alarm bells rang—kiwi were threatened and it was felt by some researchers that they could soon become extinct on New Zealand’s mainland. When we formed the BNZ Kiwi Recovery programme, a partnership between BNZ, the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society, we wanted to create an initiative that would add value to kiwi conservation.
BNZ Save the Kiwi Trust was established in 2002 and is responsible for public awareness and education, fundraising, sponsorship and grant allocations for kiwi recovery nationally. BNZ Save the Kiwi Trust works with local iwi, communities and conservation groups in a combined effort to once again fill New Zealand’s night air with the calls of a kiwi. Our goals are:
• to increase the number of kiwi in New Zealand
• to increase the number of places where kiwi live
• and to maintain their genetic diversity.
Where are our Kiwi?
(Click map to enlarge)
Thanks to the last 11 years of work we now know a lot more about our national icon and what it will take to build sustainable popluations of kiwi throughout New Zealand.
“BNZ became interested in the plight of the kiwi when we learned numbers were declining,” says Bridget O’Shannessey, BNZ general manager, people and corporate relations. “The bank decided it simply could not stand back and allow our national icon to become extinct. We decided that becoming actively involved in supporting kiwi conservation efforts was the best way for us to help. So far, we’ve contributed about $7 million, from sponsorship fees, staff, customer and public donations. We have a long way to go, but we believe our involvement with the protection of the kiwi will prove to be historically significant.”
The bank promotes fundraising products such as BNZ kiwi EFTPOS cards and cheques. Through the BNZ volunteering programme staff are also encouraged to become involved in conservation work, for instance, in planting trees and shrubs on Motuihe Island, which is ear-marked to become a kiwi sanctuary.
How you can help?
Everyone can play a role in saving kiwi, whether you live near kiwi populations or not, by:
- Making a donation to BNZ Save the Kiwi Trust at any BNZ store or ATM or on-line with credit card at www.savethekiwi.org.nz
- Avoid taking dogs into kiwi areas
- If you live in a kiwi area, begin a pest and predator control project with your neighbours, so local kiwi populations are protected
- Volunteer your time at a local kiwi protection group or habitat restoration project. Visit www.savethekiwi.org.nz for more information
- If you are a BNZ customer, you can choose a BNZ Save the Kiwi EFTPOS card or cheque book
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