102,000 Native Trees and counting: Bupa hits milestone with Trees That Count

The work, undertaken over three years, has helped restore Aotearoa’s natural environment and support community wellbeing across the country, and there is more to come this year. The first planting day took place on World Environment Day, 5 June at the Greening Taupō Day.

Bupa started investing in nature restoration with TTC in 2022 with 26,000 trees planted over two years to create three legacy forests in Hamilton, Christchurch, and Napier. In each location, residents, whānau, and local schools joined forces to restore nature and create spaces for connection, healing, and habitat regeneration.

Bupa’s Healthy Cities Challenge in 2023 saw more than 1,000 employees and residents walk and run to unlock funding for nearly 27,000 native trees as part of a global step challenge. Last year our people completed an epic 125 million steps, securing an additional 50,000 native trees to be planted later this year. 

Bupa New Zealand Managing Director Pedro Sanchez said the planting programme aligns closely with Bupa’s commitment to delivering healthier, longer, happier lives — not just for people, but for the planet too.

“Nature is a powerful healer. Through our Healthy Cities Challenge, we’re supporting restoration in some of Aotearoa’s most impacted urban environments and bringing people together to make a meaningful difference,” said Mr Sanchez.

“To see over 102,000 trees planted across the country in just three years is a remarkable achievement — and we’re just getting started. Following the 2025 Healthy Cities Challenge we will plant more trees, strengthening our commitment to environmental health and community wellbeing.”

Trees That Count CEO Robyn Haugh said the Bupa partnership showcases what’s possible when organisations invest in long-term environmental partnerships.

“Bupa’s commitment to native tree planting is helping restore ecological resilience, increase biodiversity, and connect communities to nature,” said Haugh.    

“What’s unique about this programme is its holistic approach — combining health, education, and environmental restoration together. We’re proud to stand alongside Bupa to build a greener, stronger future.”

As Bupa’s Healthy Cities Challenge gets set to launch in October this year, communities around the country can expect even more opportunities to get involved and plant the seeds for a healthier tomorrow.