A nationwide business survey has identified an increase in nature-focused initiatives. Conducted in July 2025, the poll of 64 firms found that 58 percent reported contributing to nature-related initiatives, up from 51 percent in 2023.
Researchers noted that contributions are diversifying, with companies delivering services, equipment, and strategic assistance to restoration groups.
Employee Volunteering Becomes Core to Business Culture
According to the survey, half of Kiwi firms permit employees to use work hours for volunteering, including hands-on activities such as native planting and predator control.
“When nature becomes embedded in business-as-usual – from the boardroom to frontline teams – it not only strengthens the social licence to operate, but also enhances employee wellbeing and staff retention,” the survey noted.
Climate Change Mitigation Overtakes Branding
Business motivations for environmental investment have changed. Brand purpose, which led at 76 percent in 2023, now accounts for 50 percent. The current top driver is climate change mitigation, cited by 52 percent of businesses. The survey found growing reliance on nature-based approaches such as wetlands, soil health, green roofs, and planting.
According to the World Economic Forum, “nature-focused strategies are now seen as essential to achieving carbon reduction goals,” with at least 30% of required 2030 reductions expected from such solutions.
Corporate Investment Expands Beyond Environmental Outcomes
Survey findings show that 70 percent of New Zealand companies are planning to step up their investment in nature-based activities over the next two years. Credibility is a priority, with firms choosing certified or locally grounded projects. Kōkako Organic Coffee’s backing of the Rotoehu Ecological Trust illustrates this approach.
The focus of business investment is also expanding: 75 percent of companies now seek cultural and social benefits in addition to environmental results, up from 62 percent two years ago.
Nature as a Business Investment
The findings make clear that environmental action is no longer discretionary. Businesses are embedding nature into strategy as a hedge against risk and a driver of workforce stability. “There is still work to do but the momentum for change is building,” the report said.