We endeavour to minimise our impact on both the physical and cultural environment of the Catlins area in which we live and work.
1. Soil and earth.
We have very low impact. Most walks are on tracks formed and maintained by the Department of Conservation. Where there are no formed tracks, for example when we walk over farmland or along beaches, we have a policy of avoiding track forming by varying the route taken.
2. Water.
We have very low impact. All our water at our home is collected rain water from the roof and we practice and encourage conservation of water. We use a self contained sewage disposal system.
3. Air.
We lessen our impact by servicing our vehicle at recommended intervals and keeping its running to what is essential. Our heating and cooking is done by electricity - all the electric power produced in the South Island of New Zealand is from renewable hydro-electric sources..
4. Waste disposal.
We have a recycling policy. We compost organic waste, re-use containers and sort other materials for recycling where public provision is made for these.
5. Vegetation.
We have no negative impact. There is no sample or specimen taking, and trampling of plant material is minimised. Removal of exotic species which are invading native habitats is undertaken where appropriate and is a positive impact.
6. Wildlife.
We have very little impact. All our visitors are equipped with quality binoculars so that wildlife is viewed from appropriate distances. Small creatures are observed in their habitat and any displacement of rocks or logs is repaired. We trap introduced predators such as stoats, and pests such as possums, and keep records of our wildlife observations.
7. Cultural Environment.
We are sensitive to the rights of the people who have chosen to live in the area and the mana whenua. We restrict the number of people we take on our tours and vary our activities and timing to ensure that there is no disruption to the local peopleÕs quality of life, their enjoyment of peace and tranquillity. The significance of historic use of local sites by Maori is explained to our visitors and we are committed to keeping an open dialogue with present Maori owners about current issues. We work in partnership with the Department of Conservation, providing them with reports and observations, and actively work to keep the environment free of litter. We are honorary rangers for the Department and active campaigners on environmental issues, making submissions to local body organisations as well as at a national, political level. We believe that our own example is a most valuable asset in the environmental education process.

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