The world-famous natural beauty of New Zealand pulls everyone from all over the world, plus this all-year fantastic haven consistently ranks high on the bucket list of green travel destinations. From the surrounding Hawke’s Bay, Art Deco town of Napier, the nearby winemaking region on the North Island, to the amazing Franz Josef Glacier nestled on the South Island. There is plenty to see and experience.

It can be challenging to travel for those who want no carbon footprint, but we’re here to help you with that. Here are a couple of tips for a green adventure on the magical islands of New Zealand, which have the Qualmark Enviro-Gold ratings.

“From the surrounding Hawke’s Bay, Art Deco

town of Napier, the nearby winemaking region on

the North Island, to the amazing Franz Josef Glacier

nestled on the South Island. There is plenty

to see and experience.”

Hump Ridge Track, Tuatapere

Image By Thorney – CC BY-SA 3.0

Tuatapere Hump Track is an Enviro-Gold accredited visitor attraction in the Southland region, which is operated by a charitable trust. The nearby Wairaurahiri Jet has both proved a highly positive mix of business, ecology, community, and sustainability. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the area’s history, appreciate the wilderness and immerse themselves in eco-responsible ‘leave-no-trace’ style tourism.

Wine Art & Wilderness, Nelson

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A sustainable company who take wine, food and eco practice seriously. Based in the artisan region of Nelson, found at the western tip of the South Island, this place boasts exclusive wine and art tours imbued with an eco-edge. They use fresh, local produce, waste-reduction and preservation efforts in most of their projects, and a no-trace method are key fundamentals for Wine Art and Wilderness’ owner Noel Kennedy and his team of veteran guides. Complete the day with a lunch of local wines matched to fine local produce such as cheese, scallops, or fresh mussels.

Kauri Museum, Northland

Image By Andy king50 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

A Northland attraction you certainly shouldn’t miss. This museum surprises visitors with its extensive and fantastic collections, which celebrates the magic of New Zealand’s kauri forests, and the timber and gum digging industries that caused the migration of early European settlers. The Kauri Museum is the natural prelude to visiting the stunning Waipoua Forest, the home to ancient kauri trees that have endured for thousands of years.

Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef

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Features a mix of indulgence and sustainability with a wide choice of luxury lodges, hotels and boutique lodgings that cater to the ecologically responsible traveller around the world and of course, throughout the country. Te Waonui Forest Retreat is a famous five-star luxury hotel at Franz Josef on the South Island’s wild West Coast.

Other ‘green’ tips when travelling to New Zealand

Image By Diego Delso – CC BY-SA 3.0

Support the locals

Image By Phillip Capper – CC BY 2.0

Wherever you go to New Zealand, check out the local economy or ask your agent to do a bit of research in your stead. Visit restaurants and hotels that sustainably source their food, materials, and staff from the local community.

Ecotourism thrives throughout the country, so you can quickly find better options. This applies to accommodations as well, which range from self-sustaining country farm-stays near major attractions.

Go outside and explore

Image By Andrea Schaffer – CC BY 2.0

The country’s core is its amazing natural attractions, which offers visitors varied and fantastic insight into the unique and rich ecosystem of New Zealand – alongside the iconic Kiwi birds.

Go road tripping

Image By giiku – CC BY-SA 2.0

The best way to minimize your carbon footprint when vacationing to New Zealand is to be vigilant of the resources you will use. Many of the country’s spectacular landscapes are best through hiking. Visit the Great Taste Trail, which offers not only splendid vistas but also the best breaks—from outstanding wineries to the amazing craft breweries.

Parting Note

Image By Alan Liefting – CC BY-SA 3.0

Before going to the haven that is New Zealand, be sure to read up on the New Zealand travel resources available online. This will help you know when’s the best time to come, get travel tips, and all the other basics so you can maximise your eco-stay while at the beautiful country.

Eco Travel Guide to the Beautiful New Zealand for Nature Lovers