New Zealand tourism experts launched a new travel concept this week encouraging holiday makers to enjoy the very best of the country while supporting local conservation projects.
Organisations New Zealand in Depth and Luxury Lodges of New Zealand (with support from Tourism New Zealand) have joined forces to create ‘luxury travel with a conscience’. Six of the country’s most top-end lodges are offering guests the opportunity to get hands-on with conservation projects during their stay.
All of the luxury lodges are engaged in protection of local wildlife or the regeneration of natural habitats – so guests are already supporting conservation initiatives, even if they choose not to ‘get their hands dirty’. (Although we think that a few hours spent ‘in the field’ will give you a totally fresh perspective to your trip – and will make that sundowner cocktail sipped from your private pool all the more deserved!).
Here’s more about those envy-inducing luxury lodges and why you can enjoy them ‘guilt free’:
Eagles Nest
This multi-award winning New Zealand luxury hotel & retreat is set within a 75 acre estate atop its own private ridgeline offering spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. By staying at Eagles Nest, you will support and be a part of the lodge’s vital work to conserve rare local wildlife living on the property including the North Island brown kiwi.
Bay of Many Coves
Located deep in the Marlborough Sounds, Bay of Many Coves is a five star luxury resort that offers perfect seclusion in a pristine natural environment. By staying at Bay of Many Coves, you will be supporting a project that provides homes and habitat for the local population of blue penguins, the world’s smallest penguin.
Hapuku Lodge
Unique New Zealand accommodation, nestled 30 feet above the ground in the canopy of a native Manuka grove, Hapuku Tree Houses have spectacular views of Kaikoura’s dramatic mountains and surf-washed Pacific coastline. By staying at Hapuku Lodge, you will be supporting a project that is assisting the restoration of local native forest whilst having the chance to learn about Maori culture in the region.
Treetops Lodge
Treetops Lodge offers the ultimate in world-class luxury accommodation in the heart of New Zealand’s unique forest close to the thermal wonderland and cultural capital of Rotorua. By staying at Treetops Lodge, you will learn about the ancient Maori connection with New Zealand’s native forest and play your part in protecting it for future generations.
Blanket Bay
Blanket Bay is nestled amidst rugged snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps on the shores of Lake Wakatip. Its elegant yet rustic charm delivers peace and solitude for every guest. By staying at Blanket Bay, you will support a project that is helping to protect one of New Zealand’s unique and most endangered birds, the mohua.
Fiordland Lodge
With commanding views out across Lake Te Anau, Fiordland Lodge’s luxury haven has style, comfort and privacy making it the perfect base for your Fiordland experience. By staying at Fiordland Lodge, you will be helping the local community to protect native wildlife in one of the world’s outstanding wilderness areas.
For more information about the ‘luxury travel with a conscience’ concept visit www.newzealand-indepth.co.uk or call +44 (0)1298 74040.
You have some really cool options. I’ll definitely consider them for my upcomming trip to New Zealand.