Sustainability at Te Puia

As kaitiaki (guardians) of the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. From protecting our geothermal landscape and native wildlife to reducing our environmental footprint, every decision is guided by our responsibility to care for this special place. Our commitment has been recognised through our Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award, reflecting our dedication to environmental stewardship, cultural integrity and exceptional visitor experiences.

Our sustainability strategy guides everything we do, from how we design our buildings and operate our business to how we care for our environment and support our local community.

Our Sustainability Priorities Sustainable Design

Every new building constructed since 2016 has been designed with sustainability in mind.

We prioritise:

• Energy-efficient building design
• Modern insulation and climate control
• Durable, low-impact materials
• Long-term carbon reduction
• Buildings that complement the geothermal environment

We also work closely with suppliers to minimise waste by reducing single-use products, increasing recycling, and choosing reusable alternatives wherever possible.

Caring for Our Environment

Protecting the geothermal valley is central to our role as kaitiaki.

We work alongside organisations including:

• Bay of Plenty Regional Council
• Wildlands
• Earth Sciences NZ
• Tipu Wai

Together we support:

• Restoration of the Puarenga Stream
• Native planting programmes
• Predator control
• Pest management
• Ongoing geothermal monitoring
• Protection of native wildlife, including kiwi

Renewable Energy

In 2025/26, Te Puia installed solar panels across eight buildings.

Our impact

• Solar energy now provides approximately 80% of our daytime electricity needs
• Around 55 tonnes of carbon emissions avoided annually
• Powered through a 663kW solar system
• Delivered in partnership with Mercury Energy and ZEN Energy

Low-Carbon Transport

Reducing transport emissions is an important part of our sustainability journey.

Recent initiatives include:

• Transitioning to electric and hybrid visitor vehicles
• Seven fully electric onsite utility vehicles
• Five zero-emission electric waka capable of carrying up to 36 visitors

These quieter electric vehicles improve the visitor experience while reducing environmental impact.

Our Ongoing Commitment

Sustainability isn’t a single project, it’s an ongoing responsibility.

Every decision we make considers the long-term health of the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, ensuring visitors today can experience the same remarkable landscape that future generations will inherit.