Sustainability
Farming in Harmony with Nature
At Aoraki, sustainability is the foundation for our craft. That’s because every fillet we smoke comes from our parent company Mt Cook Alpine Salmon, where farming in harmony with nature isn't a promise, it's practice. From the pristine glacial waters of the Mackenzie Basin to our smokehouse in Christchurch, we're committed to doing only what's right for the land, the water, and the future we all share.
Reduced Carbon Emissions
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon has reduced its Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions by 28% since 2020 – a year ahead of target. We are now committed to a further 21% reduction by 2030, aligning with the Paris Agreement. Every Aoraki product carries this commitment forward.
Dual use of water
Our salmon are farmed in canals built to generate hydroelectricity. This delivers twice the sustainability – clean, renewable energy and responsibly raised salmon. It's innovation that works with nature, not against it.
Water Stewardship
We depend on pure freshwater to raise healthy salmon, so water quality is rigorously monitored. We consistently meet and regulatory and certification exceed standards, and we work with researchers to track and protect the wider canal ecosystem.
Reduced Carbon Emissions
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon has reduced its Scope 1 and Scope 2 carbon emissions by 28% since 2020 – a year ahead of target. We are now committed to a further 21% reduction by 2030, aligning with the Paris Agreement. Every Aoraki product carries this commitment forward.
Dual use of water
Our salmon are farmed in canals built to generate hydroelectricity. This delivers twice the sustainability – clean, renewable energy and responsibly raised salmon. It's innovation that works with nature, not against it.
Water Stewardship
We depend on pure freshwater to raise healthy salmon, so water quality is rigorously monitored. We consistently meet and regulatory and certification exceed standards, and we work with researchers to track and protect the wider canal ecosystem.
Our commitment to the Environment
Our approach is simple: work with nature, not against it. Follow its rhythms, honour its processes, and never compromise on what's ethical. Every decision we make respects the fish, the water, and the land that sustains us. Every decision we make is shaped by ethics, care, and a commitment to sustainability, ensuring our craft honours both place and future. This isn't just how we farm – it’s who we are.
Carbon Footprint of Salmon
King Salmon farmed in New Zealand has a significantly lower carbon footprint per 100g than beef, lamb, and chicken, making every Aoraki product a more sustainable protein choice.
5.92
Beef
1.33
Pork
0.88
Chicken
0.60
Farmed Salmon
Certifications
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon's world-class certifications ensure every piece of salmon we smoke meets the highest standards:
Best Aquaculture Practice (BAP)
Highest 4-star certification that covers the full production chain, from hatchery to processing. A 4-star rating ensures strict standards for food safety, environmental care, social responsibility, and animal welfare.
Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch - Best Choice / Green Rating
Mt Cook Alpine Salmon is rated “Best Choice” by Seafood Watch – their highest green rating – meaning it’s one of the most sustainable seafood options available worldwide.
A+ New Zealand Sustainable Aquaculture
Recognised under New Zealand’s world-class framework for sustainable aquaculture management.