Small nation, big ocean: Philanthropy’s role in a global movement
Ian and Wendy Kuperus and Carl Vink at UNOC 2025 in Nice, France
Our CEO Carl Vink, and Founders Ian and Wendy Kuperus, recently attended the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) 2025 in France. Oceans are a big focus for Whakatupu Aoteaora Foundation and so our leaders embarked on a mission of listening, learning and networking. Here are some reflections on this international gathering.
“I found myself in an odd situation—explaining where New Zealand is. “It’s near Australia,” I’d say, pointing vaguely southeast on a map. It was a humbling reminder of our geographic isolation and, perhaps, our global invisibility,” says Carl.
The irony, of course, is that while our landmass is modest, we control the fourth-largest ocean space in the world. We are, by definition, a major ocean nation. Yet at this global gathering of ocean leaders, our presence was minimal. No major announcements. No bold commitments. And very few voices from Aotearoa in the room.
A Sea of Opportunity
UNOC was massive—15,000 attendees, hundreds of side events, and a palpable sense of urgency. The ocean is no longer a niche issue. It’s central to climate, biodiversity, and community resilience. And for philanthropy, the opportunities are vast.
1. Catalysing Protection
Ocean protection was a dominant theme. The Global Biodiversity Framework’s 30% target was echoed across announcements, and the High Seas Treaty (BBNJ) gained momentum. Philanthropy can play a catalytic role—funding early-stage efforts, supporting treaty implementation, and helping governments and communities move from ambition to action.
2. Investing in Innovation
Ocean innovation is booming. From accelerators in Europe to venture funds in West Africa, the ecosystem is expanding. Philanthropy can support this movement by funding early-stage ventures, de-risking investment, and building bridges between science, technology, and impact.
3. Supporting Indigenous and Community Leadership
Niue’s leadership stood out. With 40% of its ocean protected and a trust fund to support long-term monitoring, it’s a model of what’s possible. Philanthropy can help replicate these efforts—especially in regions where ocean health is tied to cultural identity and economic survival.
4. Shaping Public Narrative
Media matters. David Attenborough’s documentaries were frequently cited as game-changers. Philanthropy can amplify these efforts—funding storytelling and campaigns that shift public perception and build political will.
Where to From Here?
UNOC 2025 made one thing clear: the world is moving. Fast. The ocean is rising on the global agenda, and philanthropy has a vital role to play—not just in funding projects, but in shaping systems, building coalitions, and driving transformative change.
New Zealand may be small, but our ocean is vast. It’s time we showed up like it.