RealNZ commits 1% of online bookings to protect endangered bird

One of the most endangered bird species in Aotearoa is getting a helping wing from Queenstown tourism business RealNZ.

Only breeding on Rakiura Stewart Island, the pukunui /southern New Zealand dotterel is on the brink of extinction. Just over 100 birds remain, with estimated breeding pairs numbering fewer than 30.

Until the end of September, RealNZ is donating 1% of all online bookings to support the Department of Conservation’s vital work in habitat protection for these critically endangered manu.

RealNZ CEO, Dave Beeche, says the 1% project alone has the potential to raise tens of thousands of dollars for the pukunui over the next three months.

“It’s a true privilege to be able to support the future of the pukunui/southern New Zealand dotterel by donating 1% of all our online bookings until the end of September," he says.

“Our purpose is to help the world fall in love with conservation, and this project is the next step in that commitment for RealNZ. This is about looking after our country’s smallest locals, in our backyard – protecting the heart of where we operate in Aotearoa New Zealand.”

In partnership with the Department of Conservation, the pukunui/southern New Zealand dotterel will also be the receiving cause for this year’s RealNZ Conservation Ball. Since its inception, the Conservation Ball has raised over $664,000 for conservation projects in New Zealand, including the recent translocation projects for takahe to the Rees Valley, and kākāriki karaka to Pukenui / Anchor Island.

To take their commitment to the next level, RealNZ’s marketing team have also taken on the campaign management role for the pukunui in this year’s hotly contested Bird of the Year competition.

The Department of Conservation’s Director-General Penny Nelson says pukunui/southern New Zealand dotterel are in critical decline.

“To give pukunui the best chance at having a more successful breeding season, we need to take urgent action and reduce predators. If we don’t, we risk losing this precious species forever.

“RealNZ’s commitment to supporting the pukunui/southern New Zealand dotterel is a powerful example of how businesses can mobilise for nature. RealNZ and its customers are directly contributing to the survival of one of New Zealand’s most endangered birds, and along with the New Zealand Nature Fund are helping to protect and restore our precious biodiversity.”