Sustainable New Zealand

Many visitors choose New Zealand precisely for its beautiful landscapes and unique wildlife. The remarkable environment, though created by nature, has been preserved through the conservation efforts of its human custodians.

Protection of the environment may be a new concern for the global tourism industry, but in New Zealand it has always been at the forefront of the visitor experience. After all, many visitors choose New Zealand precisely for its beautiful landscapes and unique wildlife encounters.

The remarkable NZ environment, though created by nature, has been preserved through the efforts of its human custodians. New Zealand has 14 national parks, covering a total of 11.5 % of the country, and more than 30 % of New Zealand’s land area is protected in parks and reserves. The nation’s conservation workers are at the forefront of species management – bringing endangered birds and animals back from the brink of extinction through innovative rescue programmes. One world-renowned example is that of the Chatham Island Black Robin. In 1980 there were just five birds remaining but the population has now been restored to 250 (and growing!). Tourism and conservation come together at special breeding facilities like Kiwi Encounter in Rotorua and Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch, as well as at predator-free areas such as ZEALANDIA: The Karori Wildlife Sanctuary Experience and Kapiti Island, where visitors enjoy a unique glimpse of conservation in action and an unforgettable NZ wildlife encounter.

But it’s not only in conservation that New Zealand demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. With a population of a little more than four million people, and producing just 0.2 % of the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions, New Zealand was one of the first countries to pledge a carbon-neutral future. A number of companies have already achieved carboNZero certification, and other companies are working toward the goal. The New Zealand tourism industry recognises environmentally sustainable tourism with Qualmark Enviro certification at one of three levels: Enviro-Bronze, Enviro-Silver and Enviro-Gold. Operators and accommodation providers are awarded these Qualmark certifications for high levels of environmental and social responsibility.

New Zealand’s Christmas tree

The beloved native Pohutukawa tree blossoms with crimson flowers between December and January, making it New Zealand’s Christmas tree. Project Crimson aims to restore the devastation caused by introduced Australian Brush-tailed Possums – you can follow Crimson Trails in parts of the North Island.