This Easter, we’re working with Trees That Count to mitigate our carbon footprint over the next 50 years, by helping to fund the planting of NZ native trees right here in NZ.

$1 from every Easter Egg we sell this year will be donated to Trees That Count. Here are some of the ways your Easter Egg purchase is helping to make a difference:

- Strengthening New Zealand’s biodiversity

More than 4,000 New Zealand native plants and animals are threatened or at risk of extinction and in need of our protection. By supporting native tree planting, you’re creating more habitats for our threatened wildlife and helping build ecosystems that are more resilient to threats and diseases.

- Helping New Zealand's Economy

Native trees are great for the environment, that’s a given, but they also help our economy. Our beautiful landscapes and forests are part of our clean, green image and key to why our products and produce are so highly valued around the world. In our communities, more native tree planting also means more jobs and keeps local nurseries busy and thriving.

- Helping Kiwis breathe easier

Native trees improve the quality of our air by removing pollutants from the air. Plants are often seen as the “lungs” of an ecosystem because they absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen. Research also shows that Kiwi kids who spend more time surrounded by nature are less likely to develop asthma. 

- Looking after our rare species

80% of our trees, ferns and flowering plants are endemic (found only in New Zealand). Our unique native trees such as the kōwhai, pōhutukawa, kauri and tī kōuka (cabbage tree) are something we’re all proud of and embedded in our identity as New Zealanders. By helping plant more of our iconic native species, you’re protecting our unique flora and fauna for the future.

- Improving Community Health and Wellbeing

As little as 10 minutes a day in a natural setting can help people feel happier and lessen the effects of both physical and mental stress. Supporting native tree planting in New Zealand helps create more accessible green spaces for people to unwind, promoting health and wellbeing.

- Honoring indigenous culture and tradition 

Our native trees are closely entwined with Māori mythology, art and traditional healing. From the creation story of Ranginui and Papatūānuku being separated by Tāne god of the forests and birds, to the koru that appears in the unfurling silver fern and in many forms of Māori art and whakairo (carving), our native trees are embedded in our indigenous culture.

- Creating habitats for native birds

Your support of native tree planting is creating habitats for native birds and providing fruit, seeds and nectar that are valuable sources of food. There are 32 species of birds living in our native forests, including the famous ‘ruru’ (morepork), pīwakawaka (fantail) cheeky kea and many more.

- A legacy for future generations

Native trees can live for thousands of years. Unlike pine, they don’t need to be clear-felled and replanted – they keep thriving. Supporting native tree planting today will leave a legacy for future generations that you can be proud of. As well as helping create a healthier environment, you’ll be growing natural playgrounds for the tamariki of tomorrow and sustenance to help our wildlife survive.