KAITIAKITANGA
Kaitiakitanga means guardianship and protection, it is the Māori concept for guardianship, relating closely to natural resources like our land, sea and waterways.
We rely on the earth and these resources to survive, making us responsible for ensuring we minimise the impact we create. We all have a responsibility to be Kaitiaki of our surrounding environment, and this extends to both our staff and guests. A kaitiaki is a guardian.
Kaikōura Kayaks have a responsibility to the environment and sustainable actions, and will ensure considerations are made about how to have the least amount of environmental impact for preservation of natural assets for future generations.
Friend of the Sea
In October 2019 Kaikōura Kayaks became the very first Friend of the Sea sustainable dolphin and whale watching operator in New Zealand. We are also the first kayak operator ever certified by Friend of the Sea. Kaikōura Kayaks is very proud of such an achievement, gaining recognition for our commitment and dedication towards sustainability in marine life and its environment is a huge honor.
Friend of the Sea is currently a project of the World Sustainability Organisation, an international trademark registered with humanitarian and environmental conservation mission. Friend of the Sea has become the leading certification standard for products and services which respects and the marine environment.
The New Zealand Tourism Sustainability Commitment
Kaikōura Kayaks has adopted the New Zealand Tourism Sustainability Commitment by implementing and developing sustainable goals to our business practices. The aim is to see every New Zealand tourism business committed to sustainability by 2025. Our vision is "Leading world in Sustainable Tourism".
Qualmark
We also have an environmental commitment to participation in Qualmark which is New Zealand tourism’s official quality assurance organisation, providing a trusted guide to quality travel experiences in New Zealand.
Since joining Qualmark we have successfully achieved gold level recognition, of which we are very proud.
Only those businesses that are delivering a quality sustainable experience, who have undergone an independent safety check, and showcase true New Zealand hospitality, are recognised through a Qualmark award.