About the programme
Great South developed the Murihiku Sustainable Tourism Programme pilot especially for small to medium-sized tourism businesses in 2022. Following the success of that initial programme, further programmes are now being offered in 2023 and beyond. Sustainability is one of the key pillars of the Southland Murihiku Destination Strategy and this programme will help our region meet net zero emissions by 2050.
What’s involved
Taking a holistic approach, we support businesses to look at reducing their carbon emissions, while also improving their sustainability from an economic, visitor, community and environmental perspective.
The 10-week programme (in person and online) offers workshop sessions as well as one-on-one support, featured guest speakers, operator case studies, shares practical resources, marketing advice and accreditation pathways.
Each business will leave the programme with their own carbon measurement and reduction strategy and a sustainability plan and a network of tourism operators to share their sustainability journey with.
There is also option for each business to achieve carbon certification.
Feedback from past participants
“I initially signed up for the programme to establish what our company's carbon footprint was and to gain understanding about off-setting it. I learned that offsetting is a better 'last step' and that there are some simple steps we can take to make some environmental gains in our business. “
“The workshop included frank speakers who shared their differing pathways with us. We could see there are many ways to reach a similar goal, and that it is OK to do what works for us.”
Full details and investment for our future intake are to be confirmed. To register your interest in taking part, please contact Amie Young email amie@greatsouth.nz.
Background
The programme is based on the internationally accepted principles of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and Tourism Industry Aotearoa’s Tourism Sustainability Commitments. The demand for sustainable travel options continues to grow and the programme will support operators in our region to meet this need.
International Insights (Expedia Group 2022)
- 90% of consumers look for sustainable options when travelling
- 3 in 5 opted for more environmentally friendly transportation or accommodation
- 7 in 10 avoided a destination or transportation option due to scepticism over their sustainable practices
- 65% would like to opt for environmentally friendly transportation or lodging on their next trip
- Half would be willing to pay more for sustainable options (transport/activities/accommodation)
- 2/3 want to see more sustainability info from accommodation and transport providers
What does sustainable mean in this context?
The term sustainable in this programme includes economic and environmental factors as well as consideration of visitors and their host communities. The programme is based on internationally accepted principles of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and Tourism Industry Aotearoa’s Tourism Sustainability Commitments.
Decarbonisation Workshop Series
Great South also offers the Decarbonisation Workshop Series for business during the year. The series, which is not tourism-specific, consists of three workshops and its focus is on measuring carbon emissions rather than wider sustainability goals. More information is available below.