The Puhinui Regeneration Project Partnership

In 2024, L’Oréal Groupe in New Zealand is proud to partner with Sustainable Business Network and Te Pu a Ngā Maara on the Puhinui Regeneration Project, to help restore the land, waters and people of the Puhinui. L’Oréal’s funding will help support the project’s mission to regenerate the entire stream and its catchment, addressing a range of ecological, economic and social issues.

The 12km Puhinui Stream flows from Auckland’s Totara Park near the Botanic Gardens in Manurewa, through Papatoetoe and winding its way back to Manurewa before it heads out into Manukau Harbour. 

Historically, the Puhinui Stream served as a vital resource for local iwi, providing sustenance and nourishment to the communities along its catchment. Today, however, it has become one of Auckland's most polluted waterways, filled with rubbish and waste from its urban and industrial surroundings.

Started in 2020, The Puhinui Regeneration Project is managed through Sustainable Business Network and led by Te Pu a Ngā Maara, a Kaupapa Maaori organisation employing rangatahi born from the collective aspirations of three local Marae.

The project aims to regenerate the Puhinui ecosystem and empower local youth through nature-based job training and employment opportunities rooted in Māori knowledge. This initiative will create career pathways within the catchment, fostering a sustainable future for both the environment and the community.

The regeneration of nature remains a key pillar of ‘L’Oréal for the Future’, the Group’s sustainability roadmap to 2030. L’Oréal is accelerating its transformation towards a model respecting planetary boundaries and reinforcing its commitments to both sustainability and inclusion.  

“As soon as our team was introduced to the team at Te Pu a Ngā Maara we understood their passion and expertise, and we are delighted to be able to support this project, which not only focuses on regenerating and protecting biodiversity for future generations but also empowers young Māori by providing valuable experience in nature-based jobs. We were particularly drawn to the project's recognition of the profound connection between biodiversity and local Māori wisdom.” Marnie Carroll, Corporate Affairs & Engagement Director L’Oréal Groupe, Australia and New Zealand

“Restoring the Puhinui is not a choice, it is a must for the benefit of coming generations” Krissy Bishop, Mana Whakahaere, Te Pu-a-nga Maara

"SBN has been lucky enough to support Te Pu-a-Nga-Maara for over 2 years. And we are very excited about creating this partnership with L’Oréal. It’s wonderful to see businesses like L’Oréal prioritise investment, time and support into regenerating nature, especially as government and philanthropy funding starts to decline. It’s not just about regenerating nature, it is about uplifting the mauri of people and community and giving rangatahi the skills for a regenerative future." Stephanie Vercoe, Impact and Investment Lead - Nature, SBN

For More information, please contact:

Sarah Harper | Corporate Affairs & Engagement New Zealand | [email protected] | P: 0064 21421500