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Our Sustainable Tourism Commitment

Dolphin swimming under clear water

Cheeky Kiwi Travel is committed to sustainable tourism through its environments and procurement actions. We strongly believe that if New Zealand’s precious natural environment is allowing Cheeky Kiwi to operate as a business, it is only right that we practice Kaitiaki (guardianship) and do what we can to protect it through:

Restoring Nature & Giving Back

Carbon Reduction

Reducing & Eliminating Waste

Responsible Procurement

With these values in mind not only do we strive to live up to the business practices mentioned below we also sponsor many amazing environment projects in each area we operate.

SEE OUR SPONSORSHIP PROJECTS
Committed to Sustainable Tourism

Our sustainability practices

Restoring Nature & Giving Back

Educational Outreach: At Cheeky Kiwi Travel, we are committed to fostering environmental awareness among our guests. Our comprehensive educational program focuses on:

  • Introducing visitors to the concept of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) of New Zealand’s natural heritage
  • Providing in-depth information about local ecosystems and their significance
  • Collaborating with environmental studies students to enhance our knowledge base and ensure up-to-date, accurate information

This approach not only enriches our guests’ experience but also promotes responsible tourism practices.

Sponsorship and Conservation Efforts: Our dedication to environmental stewardship extends beyond education. We actively engage in various conservation projects across our operational areas:

  • Pest Eradication: Supporting initiatives to protect native species
  • Native Reserve Development: Assisting in the creation and maintenance of protected areas
  • Wildlife Rehabilitation: Partnering with animal rescue and welfare centres
  • Ecosystem Restoration: Participating in projects to revitalise local environments

To further our commitment, we encourage staff involvement by providing each employee with a paid day annually to contribute to these vital projects. Learn more about Cheeky Kiwi’s current environmental projects.

We also support the Save the Kiwi charity through donating 100% of profits from the sale of Cheeky Kiwi merchandise to support  Save the Kiwi conservation projects.

Carbon Reduction

At Cheeky Kiwi, we are committed to reducing and ultimately eliminating our carbon footprint through a comprehensive three-step approach:

1. Measuring Our Impact

We employ a variety of online carbon measuring tools and data sources to accurately assess our environmental impact. This crucial first step provides us with a clear baseline and helps identify key areas for improvement.

2. Reducing Our Impact

We implement a wide range of measures to minimise our carbon footprint:

  • Efficient Equipment: We invest in modern, fuel-efficient vehicles and equipment, maintaining a regular upgrade and replacement policy.
  • Alternative Transportation: We actively explore alternatives to diesel vehicles to reduce emissions.
  • Maintenance Excellence: Our robust maintenance programs ensure all equipment operates at peak efficiency.
  • Paperless Operations: We encourage the use of online brochures, electronic tickets and digital paperwork to minimise paper consumption.
  • Smart Travel Policies: We promote virtual meetings and strategic vehicle placement to reduce unnecessary travel.
  • Staff Training: We monitor and train our staff in efficient driving techniques to further reduce fuel consumption.
  • Eco-friendly Products: We prioritise the use of plant-based cleaning products and other environmentally friendly alternatives.

3. Offsetting Residual Impact

For emissions we cannot eliminate, we implement offsetting strategies:

  • Environmental Sponsorships: We support local and national environmental initiatives.
  • Habitat Rehabilitation: We actively participate in and fund environmental rehabilitation programs.

This multifaceted approach to carbon footprint reduction is integral to Cheeky Kiwi’s operational DNA, reflecting our commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.

Reducing & Eliminating Waste

Commitment to Waste Reduction at Cheeky Kiwi Travel

Cheeky Kiwi Travel is dedicated to minimising and, where possible, eliminating waste across all our operations. Our approach includes the following key initiatives:

Waste Separation and Recycling

We ensure that all waste generated during our tours is carefully separated and recycled whenever feasible. This practice not only reduces landfill contributions but also promotes a culture of sustainability among our guests.

Encouraging Sustainable Practices

We actively educate our guests about the importance of sustainability by encouraging them to refill their water bottles or bring their own. This simple action significantly reduces single-use plastic waste.

Sourcing Eco-Friendly Products

We regularly review all items provided during our tours, seeking out environmentally friendly alternatives. Our commitment extends to evaluating the materials and sustainability of every product we use, ensuring that we prioritise eco-conscious choices.

Through these efforts, Cheeky Kiwi Travel aims to lead by example in promoting responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.

Responsible Procurement

At Cheeky Kiwi, we view responsible procurement as an evolving philosophy rather than a static set of rules. This approach challenges us to continually improve our practices and make more sustainable choices. We encourage our staff to consider the following questions when making purchasing decisions:

Supplier Sustainability:

  • How does the supplier demonstrate their commitment to sustainability?

  • What sustainable options do they offer?

Product Origin and Ethics:

  • Where are the products sourced from?

  • Under what conditions are they manufactured?

Packaging Considerations:

  • What materials are used in the packaging?

  • How can the packaging be disposed of, recycled or reused?

Necessity and Alternatives:

  • Is this product essential, or can we operate without it?

  • Can it be replaced with a digital or non-physical alternative?

Efficiency and Environmental Impact:

  • Are there more efficient or lower-impact alternatives available?

  • How environmentally friendly is the product?

  • Will it contribute to pollution or pose environmental risks?

Continuous Improvement:

  • Is there a better way to approach this purchase?

We commit to reviewing our procurement decisions biannually or whenever we reorder or replace equipment. This regular assessment ensures that our purchasing practices align with our sustainability goals and adapt to new innovations in eco-friendly products and services.