One New Zealand issues first sustainability report post-rebrand

One New Zealand has published its 2024 Sustainability Report, marking its first such report since rebranding from Vodafone NZ.

The report covers the financial year from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 and focuses on the company's efforts in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) areas.

In the latest report, One New Zealand highlights a 24 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the previous fiscal year (FY23). Furthermore, the company donated more than NZD $3.2 million through initiatives aimed at mitigating youth disadvantages, including the Te Rourou, One Aotearoa Foundation and the One Good Kiwi programme. The company also saw a notable 12-point increase in its independent sustainability benchmarking score from GRESB, moving from 61 in 2023 to 73 this year.

Nicky Preston, Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs at One New Zealand, elaborated on the company's sustainability strategy: "At One New Zealand, we're committed to thinking long-term and prioritising environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities, directly linked to our purpose of creating a more awesome and better-connected Aotearoa."

Preston further explained that sustainability has long been integral to the company's operations. "In August 2023, we refreshed our approach to ESG when we launched our current sustainability kaupapa, further defining our current strategy and goals, incorporating te ao Māori values and principles. We're now pleased to release our first Sustainability report as One New Zealand, building on our commitment to sustainability as Vodafone NZ," she said.

The report delves into various measures taken to decrease the intensity of carbon emissions and promote the use of renewable energy. It also outlines efforts to support customers and assist in the decarbonisation process within New Zealand through technological means. The report offers insights into the company's approach to waste minimisation and its initiatives to respond to climate change while building resilience into its telecommunications networks.

Social sustainability and corporate philanthropy are also prominently featured, primarily executed through Te Rourou, One Aotearoa Foundation and the digital giving app, One Good Kiwi. In addition to its environmental pursuits, the company places significant emphasis on governance, by prioritising both physical and digital resilience, establishing an inclusive and diverse workplace, and upholding its Te Tiriti o Waitangi Policy.

Preston summarised the company's continuing journey: "While we continue to push ahead, there is always more to be done as outlined in this report. Our guiding whakataukī sums up our long-term approach: Whatungarongaro te tangata toitū te whenua. As people disappear from sight, the land remains."

The report also includes updates on the company's progress towards its goals and details the changes in focus areas for the current financial year (FY25).

The full report can be accessed and downloaded from the One New Zealand Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility website page.