Supporting local communities to thrive
Being a genuinely sustainable company means empowering the communities of which we’re a part, and others around New Zealand.
Community Development
We actively support the communities around our generation assets through employment and business opportunities, sponsorships, community events, access to outdoor recreation and our Power Up Community Funds. Since 2010 we’ve provided $9 million through these funds to support community-led projects, making tangible differences where they matter most.
We’re also driving positive change across Aotearoa with our Community Decarbonisation Fund. Since 2021 we’ve allocated over $1 million to initiatives that help community groups reduce costs and emissions through EVs, EV chargers and solar panels.
Meridian also stands proudly alongside KidsCan as its principal partner. With our support, KidsCan helps 55,000 school kids daily to have access to food and essential items like jackets, shoes, socks and health products.
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Iwi engagement
We take action to support tangata whenua to be active kaitiaki of the lands and natural resources on which our business is based. As an organisation, we’re building our cultural capability and are committed to developing trusted and mutually beneficial relationships with iwi and hapū in the communities in which we operate.
Case Study: Wind farm benefits local economy
The construction of our Harapaki wind farm in Hawke’s Bay had a strong focus on social procurement, including local employment and local spend. This has set the standard for other Meridian projects.
Creating a space for kids – Ashhurst's community skate park
Building a skate park in Ashhurst was a massive job that required huge amounts of community effort and funding support from Meridian and others. Now, it's a treasured community asset.
Tackling Zero
Tackling Zero is Meridian’s quarterly newsletter for people whose roles or studies are focused on sustainability, or for whom this is an area of interest. Each issue will offer Meridian’s insights into a topical sustainability issue, as well as stories on how we, our customers and supply chain partners are tackling sustainability. It also includes links to recent Meridian disclosures such as new policies and reports.