Environmental Care Code

Also see our Freedom Camping section.
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New Zealand is an increasingly popular destination for tourists and travellers alike. As its popularity increases, so does the potential for damage to our environment.

Reproduced below is a NZ Environmental Care Code, developed by a number of NZ agencies including: - Federated Mountain Clubs of NZ (Inc), Environment and Conservation Organisations of NZ (Inc), NZ Mountain Safety Council (Inc), NZ Institute of Park and Recreation Administration (Inc), Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society of NZ (Inc), and co-ordinated by the Department of Conservation.

Visitors, please give a few minutes of your valuable time to read this simple code and help us minimise tourism's impact on NZ's environment by following its creed.

New Zealanders might care to reflect on the reasons WHY so many visitors make the long and expensive journey to our country - we have in our care something that is worth caring for.

PROTECT PLANTS AND ANIMALS
Treat New Zealand's forests and birds with respect. They are unique and often rare.

REMOVE RUBBISH
Litter is unattractive and can increase vermin and disease. Plan your visits to reduce rubbish, and CARRY OUT WHAT YOU CARRY IN.

BURY TOILET WASTE
In areas without toilet facilities, bury your toilet waste in a shallow hole well away from waterways, tracks, campsites and huts.

KEEP STREAMS AND LAKES CLEAN
When cleaning and washing, take the water and wash well away from the water source. Because soaps and detergents are harmful to water-life, drain used water into the soil to allow it to be filtered. If you suspect the water may be contaminated, either boil it for at least 3 minutes, or filter it, or chemically treat it.

ENJOY YOUR VISIT
Enjoy your outdoor experience. Take a last look before leaving an area: will the next visitor know that you have been there?

KEEP TO THE TRACK
By keeping to the track, where one exists, you lessen the chance of damaging fragile plants.

CONSIDER OTHERS
People visit the back country and rural areas for many reasons. Be considerate of other visitors who also have a right to enjoy the natural environment.

TAKE CARE WITH FIRES
Portable fuel stoves are less harmful to the environment and are more efficient than fires. If you do use a fire, keep it small, use only dead wood and make sure it is extinguished by dousing it with water and checking the ashes before leaving.

RESPECT OUR CULTURAL HERITAGE
Many places in New Zealand have a spiritual and historical significance. Treat these places with consideration and respect.

Protect the environment for your own sake, for the sake of those who come after you, and for the environment itself.

Toihu te whenua (Leave the land undisturbed)