Rainforest carbon financing in New Zealand: A case study of REDD+ on Māori land

This study examines a case study of the Rarakau Rainforest Conservation Project on Māori‐owned land in western Southland – New Zealand's first and only REDD+ project. It explores the potential for REDD+ projects on Māori land throughout the country. Key findings show that REDD+ is technically feasible in New Zealand, but commercially dependent on (currently low) demand in the domestic retail carbon offset and ‘corporate social responsibility’ market. Market research suggests that there is sufficient demand to cater to the needs of a small number of REDD+ projects, but insufficient demand to roll out a nation‐wide scheme.