Ready to branch out from ‘business as usual’? This Conservation Week, 1-7 September, the Department of Conservation (DOC) is inviting workplaces across Aotearoa to leave their desks behind and take action for nature.
With more than 4,000 of our native species at risk, the Department says the time to step up (and maybe step outside) is now.
Led by DOC, this year’s theme ‘Take action for nature’ is a call for workplaces to support New Zealand’s unique biodiversity – and improve the wellbeing of their teams at the same time.
“Connecting with nature isn’t just good for the environment, it’s proven to benefit mental health, reduce stress, and increase productivity and creativity in the workplace,” says DOC Deputy Director-General Public Affairs, Sia Aston.
“Spending even a short time in nature can lift moods, improve focus, and help teams feel more connected. When businesses take action for nature, they’re also investing in their people.”
Whether it’s a walking meeting, a beach clean-up, a lunchtime quiz, or learning to identify native birds, Conservation Week activities are designed to boost both nature and workplace wellbeing.
DOC has created a Conservation Week kete full of ready-to-go resources to help businesses plan, promote and share their involvement.
Workplaces are encouraged to:
- Choose one or more easy activities from the Conservation Week kete;
- Share photos or videos on social media demonstrating how your business is taking action for nature.
Activities include:
- Daily nature quiz – test your team’s knowledge with a new question each day;
- Walking meetings – turn team catchups into nature-connected strolls;
- Beach clean-ups – help your local environment and enjoy a day out;
- Bird ID online course – learn to recognise native birds by sight and sound;
- Spyfish Aotearoa – count fish for science during your break;
- Fiordland Kiwi Diaries screening – relax over lunch with a dose of kiwi magic.
Download your free Conservation Week kete. Conservation Week: Get involved
The kete includes activity guides and promotion materials to make running your own event simple, fun, and impactful.
Explore ideas at www.doc.govt.nz/conservationweek.
