Overview
Toitū Tahua: The Centre for Sustainable Finance was launched in July 2021 by the Sustainable Finance Forum to implement a long-term roadmap for a sustainable financial system in New Zealand. It operates as an independent interface between the public and private sectors, focusing on changing mindsets and accelerating the incorporation of environmental, social, and economic considerations into financial decision-making.
Mission and focus areas
The organization aims to advance a sustainable, equitable, and inclusive financial system in Aotearoa New Zealand. Its focus areas include redirecting capital toward sustainable projects, raising the profile of sustainability among investors and consumers, and ensuring New Zealand keeps pace with international sustainable finance developments and obligations.
Structure and governance
Toitū Tahua was established as an initiative of the Aotearoa Circle, a partnership between public and private sector leaders. It is led by co-chairs, including Bridget Coates, and is supported by a variety of funders including major banks (ASB, ANZ, BNZ, HSBC, Westpac), professional services firms (EY), insurers (IAG), and government-linked entities such as the NZ Super Fund and Kāinga Ora.
Programs and offerings
The Centre provides a trusted resource and credible voice for sustainable finance through initiatives such as the Sustainable Agriculture Finance Initiative (SAFI), which offers guidance for rural funders. It also convenes roundtable discussions, webinars, and produces resources related to the development of a New Zealand sustainable finance taxonomy and mandatory climate-related financial disclosures.
Our Mission: By 2030, align financial markets settings, initiatives and leadership with our vision of a sustainable financial system.