One NZ & DOC partner to boost high-tech conservation efforts
The Department of Conservation (DOC) has named One New Zealand (One NZ) as its new National Conservation Partner in a collaboration that will deliver new technology and mobile services to support frontline conservation work.
The arrangement marks the first time in over two decades that DOC has shifted its technology services provider, with One NZ's satellite-powered mobile offerings now set to equip DOC rangers and staff with expanded connectivity and digital tools, particularly in remote areas of New Zealand's diverse landscapes.
Technology in the field
The partnership aims to enhance on-the-ground conservation by consolidating multiple communication devices into a single mobile phone for staff, while expanding coverage through satellite and IoT technologies. These resources are intended to bolster safety, data collection, and decision-making for the personnel working across the roughly one-third of New Zealand's landmass and its marine reserves managed by DOC.
One NZ and DOC will pilot and scale a suite of emerging technologies as part of the agreement. This includes satellite and IoT technology to enhance safety and conservation management, satellite-connected field tools to allow remote data collection and species tracking, and sensor systems capable of sending alerts to minimise unnecessary field trips.
Starlink partnership
The new initiatives will be supported by the One NZ Satellite network, which will be delivered jointly with Starlink. Powered by Starlink's Direct to Cell technology, the system aims to provide connectivity for workers in isolated areas. One NZ will also continue its cellular and Wi-Fi calling services.
"We're at an exciting intersection, where technology can make a tangible difference to New Zealand's natural heritage," says Jason Paris, CEO of One New Zealand.
"By improving how DOC rangers and staff communicate, we're helping protect the people, places, and species that make Aotearoa so special. Our sustainability strategy includes a focus on helping create a greener Aotearoa. Becoming a Conservation Partner with DOC demonstrates our commitment to creating a better New Zealand for future generations, and shows that our innovative connectivity solutions are attracting organisations whose values align with our own."
Conservation outcomes
Penny Nelson, Director-General for the Department of Conservation, commented on the partnership's potential to strengthen and modernise DOC's conservation operations, ensuring that efforts to safeguard New Zealand's unique species are more effective.
"New Zealand is incredibly fortunate to be a global hotspot for nature. 70% of our species are found here and nowhere else in the world. If we lose any of these, they'll be gone for good, which is why we work so hard to protect them."
"This partnership with One New Zealand will help DOC make the most of new technology, trialling tools to strengthen our frontline efforts, and finding new ways of working that keep rangers and resources focused where they're needed most. The mahi remains the same, but with better tech and faster connections, our staff will be able to do even more for nature."
Pilot successes
The partnership's practical benefits have already been demonstrated, notably in Haast – one of the country's remotest regions – where DOC ranger Heath Sinclair uses One NZ Satellite TXT as part of the Kiwi Recovery Strategy. The technology has enabled Sinclair to remain in contact with base, receive weather updates, and request assistance if needed, despite challenging terrain.
Through these developments, DOC and One NZ seek to enhance the way conservation is managed across New Zealand by using technology to connect staff and resources, ultimately supporting the ongoing preservation of the country's unique natural heritage and species.
