Caring for
New Zealand
Caring for New Zealand means travelling responsibly, respecting the natural environment, learning about Māori culture and supporting the communities you visit. Aotearoa New Zealand is known for its spectacular landscapes, native wildlife and unique cultural heritage, and protecting these places is important for both residents and visitors. The Tiaki Promise encourages everyone travelling in New Zealand to care for the land, respect others, travel safely and leave places as they found them. Great North Tours supports responsible tourism and encourages guests to experience New Zealand thoughtfully while enjoying the country's landscapes, communities and cultural attractions.
For more info in different Languages - check out the videos below
English
Spanish
Chinese
German
Caring for New Zealand: FAQs
What does caring for New Zealand mean?
Caring for New Zealand means travelling in a way that respects Aotearoa's natural environment, people, culture and communities. Small actions such as reducing waste, staying on marked tracks, respecting wildlife and supporting local businesses can help protect the places you visit.
What is the Tiaki Promise?
The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand by respecting the environment, travelling safely, showing respect for others and helping protect the country for future generations.
How can visitors help protect New Zealand's environment?
Visitors can help by taking rubbish with them, avoiding unnecessary waste, staying on designated tracks, respecting conservation areas and following local guidance. Choosing responsible tourism operators and supporting local businesses can also make a positive difference.
How should I behave around New Zealand wildlife?
Wildlife should always be observed from a respectful distance and never fed or disturbed. Follow local signs and conservation guidance, particularly around marine mammals, native birds and protected habitats.
Why is it important to stay on marked walking tracks?
Staying on marked tracks helps protect native plants, fragile landscapes and wildlife habitats while also keeping visitors safer. Some natural areas can be particularly sensitive to foot traffic and erosion.
How can tourists reduce waste while travelling in New Zealand?
Travellers can reduce waste by carrying reusable water bottles and bags, avoiding unnecessary single-use items, using recycling facilities where available and taking rubbish with them when travelling through areas without bins.
How can visitors support local communities in New Zealand?
Supporting locally owned accommodation, restaurants, cafés, activity providers, shops and other businesses helps keep tourism spending within local communities. Visitors can also learn about the history and culture of the places they visit.
How can tourists respect Māori culture in New Zealand?
Visitors can show respect by learning about Māori history and tikanga, listening to local guides and following the cultural protocols of the places they visit. Māori culture is an important part of Aotearoa New Zealand's identity and should be approached respectfully.
What should I do with rubbish while travelling around New Zealand?
Take rubbish with you if there is no suitable disposal facility and use recycling and rubbish bins correctly where they are provided. Keeping natural areas clean helps protect wildlife and ensures they remain enjoyable for everyone.
How can Great North Tours help visitors travel responsibly?
Great North Tours plans private customised itineraries that can include responsible travel choices, local experiences and time to explore New Zealand's natural and cultural attractions respectfully. The company is also committed to caring for the land and people of Aotearoa.
Is Great North Tours committed to sustainable tourism?
Yes. Great North Tours has Qualmark Silver accreditation and incorporates responsible tourism practices into its business. The company aims to support local communities, reduce environmental impacts and provide visitors with meaningful experiences across the North Island.
Why is responsible tourism important in New Zealand?
New Zealand's landscapes, wildlife, cultural heritage and communities are important parts of the country's identity and tourism appeal. Responsible tourism helps protect these resources while allowing visitors to enjoy and learn from them for years to come.