Who we are

WWF-New Zealand is part of the WWF International Network, the world’s largest independent conservation organisation.

WWF’s mission is to stop the degradation of the planet's natural environment and to build a future in which people live in harmony with nature.

We are working to:

Conserve the world’s biological diversity
Ensure that the use of renewable natural resources is sustainable
Promote the reduction of pollution and wasteful consumption

We work on the ground with local communities, and in partnership with government and industry, using the best possible science to advocate for change and effective conservation policy.

Our New Zealand programmes include research, advocacy and partnerships aimed at protecting Aotearoa’s precious habitats and species and minimising harm from fishing and other activities.

Looking after the oceans and the animals that live there is one of WWF’s top global priorities. Because New Zealand has one of the largest marine environments in the world, one that is home to more than 80% of our indigenous biodiversity, the majority of WWF- New Zealand’s current projects focus on marine issues.

We also want to inspire and enable New Zealanders to care for their habitats and species as part of a healthier society and economy. To help Kiwis rise to the global challenge of how to live sustainably today, without compromising quality of life for future generations.

All of our work only happens thanks to our supporters. It is their passion and commitment to our planet that will make our vision of people and nature thriving together possible.

Working together - more is possible

Our History and Logo

World Wildlife Fund was established in 1961, with a focus on helping save the world’s wildlife.

WWF-New Zealand was established as a charitable trust in 1975.

In 1985, we changed our name to World Wide Fund for Nature – the change from “wildlife” to “nature” reflects our broadening scope.

Increasingly, to avoid confusion across languages and cultures, we are known simply as “WWF”.

Evolution of the WWF logo

WORKING WITH OTHERS TO MAKE CHANGE HAPPEN

Collaboration is one of WWF core values. We know that one organisation alone can’t affect the change needed. The changes we want to see in the world can only come about through the efforts of many actors.

WWF’s approach is to bring together individuals, communities, businesses, and governments to create solutions based on science and thought leadership- together possible!

Our Commitment to Tangata Whenua:

At WWF, we strongly believe that recognising the rights, territories, laws and culture of tangata whenua are crucial to delivering inclusive and sustainable development and finding the most effective solutions to the most pressing environmental problems.

WWF-New Zealand is committed to working in accordance with Māori knowledge and guidance, including partnering with Māori and local communities where and when invited to do so.

Partnering with Māori (and indigenous communities outside of Aotearoa) embraces their knowledge, sovereignty, governance and leadership, which are crucial to conserving threatened wildlife and restoring precious habitats, as well as advancing economic stability, food security and other specific community needs.

To ensure and evidence that we are transparent and accountable, we have a safeguarding system in place globally. Safeguards are designed to manage risks, uphold human rights and ensure our projects deliver better outcomes for communities and nature.