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Protecting the Environment During Adventures, Camps and Activities

Please follow these environmental tips. These actions protect the natural environment and preserve it for future generations.

Protect Plants & Wildlife

A high percentage of New Zealand’s wildlife is endemic (found nowhere else on earth). About 1,000 of New Zealand’s known animal, plant and fungi species are currently threatened.

Treat forests and animals with care and respect.
Protect and sustain habitats and species while camping/tramping.
Leave no trace of your visit.
Reduce, re-use and recycle.
Keep your camping sites compact; do not clutter up an area and spoil the environment for others.

Keep Streams and Lakes Clean

Fresh water is part of our national identity. Approximately two-thirds of the world is covered in water, but only 1% of that is available for drinking. Rivers and lakes are affected by what we do on the land. Our rivers, lakes and streams are being impacted by increasing levels of pollution, bacteria, silt, fertilisers and animal/human waste.

When cleaning and washing, take water and wash well away from the water source. Drain used water into the soil to allow it to be filtered before re-entering a lake or a stream.
Use just enough water to stay clean. Get a bit grungy!
Where there is a toilet, use it.
In areas without toilet facilities bury your toilet waste. Choose a place at least 50 metres from tracks, huts, camping sites, popular areas and water sources. Dig a shallow hole 150mm deep with the soil's organic layer and bury all toilet waste and paper. This will stop the waste contaminating water sources. Using a small trowel will make it easier to bury toilet waste.

Take Care with Stoves and Fires

Fire is one of the greatest threats to our natural environment. Camp fires have environmental consequences. Fires use up wood, destroy insects and other animal life, and they can scar sites with blackened and charred fire places. Fallen wood, especially larger branches and logs, can be a food and shelter source for many forest insects and plants.

If you use a fire, keep it small, use only dead wood and make sure it is out by dousing it with water and checking the ashes before you leave.
Use existing fire places if possible and NEVER leave fires unattended.

Respect our Cultural Heritage

Many places and animals in New Zealand have special spiritual, cultural or historical significance.

Respect the cultural, spiritual and historical importance of the areas you are staying and walking through.
Appreciate the cultural values of the places you visit/stay. Learn about the area’s history and protocols.
Consult with mana whenua (Māori who are tied culturally to an area by whakapapa (genealogy) and ancestors who lived and died there) to ensure that you respect the tikanga (customs) within an area.

(Resource: Ministry of Conservation: Environmental Care Code: Toitu te whenua (Leave the land undisturbed) )

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