Environment
OUR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
Being fortunate enough to live and work in spectacular Fiordland, a World Heritage Area, gives us a unique connection and appreciation of the environment around us. We would like to share with our guests, some of the ways in which we try and make a difference.
At Explorer Motel & Apartments, we strive to operate our hospitality business in the most environmentally friendly way that we can. We support our staff and customers to learn about and take part in practices that allow us to operate more sustainably.
As a member of the ASURE Accommodation Group, Explorer Motel & Apartments is working towards adopting the group's full Sustainability Policy. We are always looking at more ways in which to grow and improve our environmental efforts to protect the environment for generations to come.
Explorer Motels also support the Tiaki Promise initiative which asks for the commitment of both New Zealander's and its visitors to respect and care for the environment and others.
Tiaki Promise
Protect, Preserve & Respect New Zealand.
In New Zealand, we feel a special connection with the land we come from and a duty of care is installed in us from a young age. We believe that if you look after the land, it will look after you and future generations.
At ASURE Explorer Motel we welcome all guests who visit our beautiful land to embrace and follow the Tiaki New Zealand promise to guard, protect and preserve New Zealand.
Protect Nature
New Zealand is jam-packed with some incredible scenery. Our natural attractions are some of our most visited, but also our most precious. Please help to protect these places by minimising your personal effect on your surroundings.
Keep NZ Clean
Rubbish in our environment not only looks bad, but it can be a life-sentence for animals and birds that may ingest it, or get caught in it. Wherever you travel, please use the rubbish bins available or take your rubbish with you. It is also important to use designated toilet facilities on your trip. Public toilets can be found in most towns, just Google it, or call into a local shop and ask.
Drive Carefully
New Zealand roads may be different from what you are used to, so allow extra time to travel so you don't need to rush. There are many amazing places to stop, rest, walk, snack, and take in the views. If you are hiring a car upon your arrival in New Zealand, please be sure to read any information about New Zealand road rules, as they may differ from country to country. It will all help to keep yourself and others safe.
Be Prepared
When you are heading into the outdoors, be prepared for all conditions, especially if you are heading into an alpine environment. Get advice from locals, the Department of Conservation Visitors Centres are a good place to start. If you are undertaking a multi-day walk in Fiordland, this gear list may help you prepare.
Show Respect
Show respect to the environment and also to others. New Zealander's are influenced by Western culture as well as tikanga Māori (Māori values & knowledge). While some of the customs and traditions of New Zealand can be explained, the best thing to do is 'travel with an open heart and mind' and learn and enjoy the journey.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Protect, Preserve & Respect Fiordland.
RECYCLING
We encourage our guests and staff to separate rubbish and use the recycling receptacles provided wherever possible.
SAFE CLEANING PRODUCTS
To clean our rooms, we use only non-toxic products that are known to be safe for the environment, and ultimately better for you!
LED LIGHTBULBS
We use LED lightbulbs as they are more energy-efficient, and also cause less environmental damage during their manufacture.
BUY FROM LOCAL SUPPLIERS
We source our products locally, not only to support our local community and economy, but also to reduce the emissions required to bring products to our door.
KOHA SPA AMENITIES
We use Koha Spa bathroom amenity products that are not only good for your skin but also have biodegradable and fully recyclable packaging.
STAFF TRAINING
Our dedicated staff members are trained and supported to uphold our key environmental policies in their everyday work.
Sustainability at ASURE Explorer Motel
Our sustainable tourism team is actively working towards new initiatives and reducing our Carbon Footprint. If you wish to comment on our current initiatives or have new ideas please notify our reception staff on your departure.
We hope you leave the ASURE Explorer Motel knowing your support helps us maintain the lovely environment we live in.
Environmental initiatives:
Energy
- Staff are fully trained in energy saving practices (turning off lights and equipment as necessarily)
- LED bulbs used in all areas
- Hot water cylinders set to 55 degrees
- Air conditioning system maintained to ensure efficient use.
- Energy efficient appliances used
- Hot water cylinders and pipes insulated.
- Suites are insulated to reduce heat loss
- Sleep mode is installed on all computers along with LCD screen monitors
- All computers and equipment in offices are switched off when not in use
- Guest given the option to not have room serviced and towels changed daily
- Staff are encouraged to walk, cycle or carpool to work
- All rooms fully insulated
Waste
- Full recycling system in place -Glass, Cardboard, Tins, Aluminium, Paper and Plastic
- Bulk ordering done in all departments to avoid excess packaging – packaging returned to supplier for recycling
- Limited printing of emails, reservations, and general paperwork
- Recycled paper used for note paper, internal printing and where appropriate
- Eco friendly cleaning products used to a minimum
- Milk is available in sterilised glass bottles for guests on arrival.
Water
- Dual flush systems on toilets in new suites
- Maintenance manager checks for leaks in taps, toilets, valves and pipework on a weekly basis
- Limited water used in cleaning all windows
Community
As a community we also support:
- Offering employment to local residents when possible
- Commitment from staff to follow all environmental initiatives in place
- We aim to purchase products from local suppliers
- We support local business by promoting their attractions and activities through reception
- Involvement with the sustainable business practice group
- Dedicated sustainable tourism webpage on our website
Visit: