Qualmark

In New Zealand, many activity operators and accommodation providers carry New Zealand tourism’s official mark of quality.

Operators that have been awarded a Qualmark have been assessed as professional, safe and trustworthy, and accommodation providers are rated on a star grading system. The latest addition to Qualmark’s rating system is the Enviro Award for various levels of environmental and social responsibility.

Accommodation

Accommodation providers carrying Qualmark certification are inspected annually for facilities, cleanliness and professionalism. They are rated on a star grading system ranging from one to five, including the half rating ‘Plus’. Under the Qualmark system a variety of accommodation types are rated. The categories are: Hotels, Self Contained & Serviced, Holiday Parks, Backpackers, Guest & Hosted, Holiday Homes, Student Accommodation and Venues.

A Qualmark ‘Exclusive’ rating is the highest certification and a league of its own. New Zealand accommodation providers rated ‘Exclusive’ offer the finest locations, peerless facilities, unforgettable activities and faultless service. These properties meet the strictest of criteria and are not common, but that’s part of the appeal. Here is a star-rating guide so you know exactly what to expect.

1 Star             Acceptable – Meets customers’ minimum requirements.
2 Stars            Good – Exceeds the minimum quality requirements.
3 Stars            Very Good – Good to very good quality facilities and services.
4 Stars            Excellent – Consistently achieves high quality levels.
5 Stars            Exceptional – Among the best available in New Zealand.

Operators

New Zealand operators in the activity, transport and service categories who are endorsed by Qualmark have met quality standards in safety, facilities, equipment and customer service after a three- to six-hour onsite visit by Qualmark inspectors.

Enviro Awards

Qualmark’s Enviro Awards are the latest addition to Qualmark’s rating system and they are all about keeping New Zealand clean and green. Operators and accommodation providers are rated for energy efficiency, waste management, water conservation, community activities and conservation initiatives. The three Enviro Qualmark categories are as follows:

Enviro-Bronze        Meets good levels of environmental and social responsibility.
Enviro-Silver        Meets high levels of environmental and social responsibility.
Enviro-Gold        Exceeds the highest levels of environmental and social responsibility.