Bupa New Zealand is continuing its commitment to native forest restoration and biodiversity recovery with Trees That Count in 2026.

As part of the partnership, 16,603 native trees will be planted this year to support native forest restoration in urban environments throughout Aotearoa. This includes trees funded as part of Bupa’s Healthy Cities step challenge which encourages people to look after their wellbeing, with steps unlocking funds for planting trees.

The trees will be planted in Hamilton, Taupō, Queenstown and Christchurch, enabling vital restoration efforts in urban environments with the help of our people, residents and the community. Specific planting sites and dates will be confirmed over coming months.

Walking, Wellness and a Healthier Planet

“Healthy Cities is more than a step challenge,” says Bupa Managing Director Pedro Sanchez. “Healthy Cities is how we bring to life the idea of ‘healthy people, healthy planet’ and show their interconnectedness.”

During the month of October, Bupa people, residents and partners track everyday activity - walking, cycling, fitness and outdoor activity – in a Healthy Cities app, with more steps meaning more trees planted.

Pedro Sanchez says, “Our 320 million steps last year delivered fantastic health and wellbeing outcomes for our people and residents, and unlocked funding to plant trees, restore habitat, and grow a legacy for communities. It’s proof that everyday actions can make a lasting difference for people and planet.”

Building on a Track Record of Impact

The planting of nearly 16,603 trees this year adds to a growing legacy from Bupa and Trees that Count.

Since 2022, Bupa New Zealand’s partnership with Trees That Count has resulted in over 118,000 native trees planted across the country.

Robyn Haugh, CEO Trees That Count says, “We're so pleased to continue our partnership with Bupa into 2026, supporting credible native forest restoration projects across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through their Healthy Cities programme, Bupa is not only contributing to strengthening our climate defences and enhancing our unique biodiversity - they're also helping to meaningfully connect communities to nature."

Bupa's work with Trees That Count is supporting numerous positive benefits for people and nature - from healthier ecosystems to cleaner waterways - leaving a lasting legacy and helping to grow a more resilient future for Aotearoa New Zealand.

Pedro Sanchez says, “The work on nature restoration and forest regeneration doesn’t stop. Our residents and people have told us it’s important to take care of local ecosystems for the next generation, so the work will continue.”

Get Involved: Planting Days 2026
 

Bupa NZ will share details of upcoming planting events in 2026, including regeneration events as part of its Junior Landcare programme with New Zealand Landcare Trust.

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