Nature is not our backdrop — it is the reason we exist.

ECOTRAILS operates with the understanding that guiding carries responsibility. Every step we take into the landscape is considered, deliberate and respectful.

1. Small Groups, Lower Impact

We operate small-group experiences to reduce environmental footprint.

Smaller groups mean:

• Less track erosion

• Quieter wildlife encounters

• Minimal disturbance to other visitors

• Greater awareness of surroundings

Impact management begins with scale.

2. Minimal Impact Guiding Principles

We follow minimal-impact and Leave No Trace practices:

• Staying on formed tracks where appropriate

• Avoiding damage to fragile vegetation

• Not feeding or disturbing wildlife

• Carrying out all waste

• Respecting cultural and historic sites

Our goal is simple:
Leave the landscape exactly as we found it.

3. Education Through Experience

We believe understanding creates care.

During each walk, we share knowledge about:

• Native plant species

• Ecological relationships

• Land use history

• Conservation challenges

• Local restoration efforts

Informed visitors make better environmental decisions — long after their trip ends.

4. Supporting Conservation

Where possible, we:

• Encourage responsible visitor behaviour

• Promote conservation awareness

• Direct guests toward local environmental initiatives

We operate under Department of Conservation permissions where required and align with national conservation standards.

5. The Tiaki Promise

We proudly operate under the Tiaki Promise — caring for people, place and culture in Aotearoa New Zealand.

To Tiaki means to:

• Care for the land

• Respect culture

• Travel responsibly

• Leave New Zealand better than we found it

It is not a slogan. It is an operating principle.

6. Continuous Improvement

Environmental responsibility is not static.

We regularly review:

• Waste reduction practices

• Transport efficiency

• Supplier choices

• Operational footprint

We aim to improve each season — even in small ways.