Eco- Sustainability

Waipoua Lodge is a member of the Northland Sustainable Tourism Charter

‘Creating a successful Northland tourism industry, committed to continual improvement in sustainable business practises, that protect and enhance the natural, cultural, social and economic environment.’ - NSTC

Download NSTC Charter PDF here

The influence of our stunning lodge environment is encompassed by natural beauty and steeped in the history of this land. We cannot but want to preserve its very essence. We feel we are but ‘kaitiaki’ (caretakers) of this land that has been tended by maori and nature for many thousands of years and will continue on for many thousands more (we hope). To this end we aim to leave small footprints from our day to day life so that our damage to the land is lessened. 

We recycle our waste – cans and bottles are recycled, all kitchen food waste is fed to local pigs and our dog. We plant native species in the garden and avoid plants with seeds that will spread. We spray existing unwanted weeds. We collect and purify our own water, we grow our own vegetables organically. The reason it is so easy to grow vegetables here is because nature is kept in balance by the forest – the vegetables are not eaten by insects en masse, which is what happens with monoculture today. We are so fortunate to be able to let nature assist us here. We support local food suppliers and growers in Northland and where possible choose organic items. 

We launder our sheets in eco friendly cleaners, so the sheets aren’t starched to stiff white, but are absolutely clean and air dried naturally. We use citrus cleaners and use natural woods, wools and cottons in the rooms.

We employ and train local staff and donate to and support our local school. The school is our community in this remote area. Nicole (owner and host) was also selected for the Kaipara Leadership Programme in conjunction with the Auckland University, which in turn supports community sustainability in the local Kaipara District.