Kea on the Hump Ridge Track
Pink Penguin Studio

Caring for Murihiku

Keep Southland Beautiful

Taking responsibility for our actions is the first step towards a cleaner, more beautiful New Zealand. Every little bit counts and it all starts with us. So, whether you're exploring the great outdoors or simply walking down the street, let's remember to leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but memories.

Leave no trace

Together, we can make a difference by disposing of our litter responsibly. When you're out camping or hiking, make sure to collect all your rubbish and carry it with you until you find a bin. And don't forget about recycling - it's a standard practice in New Zealand, and almost everyone has access to recycling facilities. Let's all do our part by using the colour-coded bins available at most accommodations and separating our rubbish properly. 

As DOC says, if you pack it in, pack it out.

Reduce your waste

Reducing the amount of waste, you generate can contribute greatly to keeping Southland clean and green. As you travel through this beautiful region, here are some tips to help you reduce your waste:

Bring a reusable drink bottle

In New Zealand, an estimated 828 million single-use plastic bottles are discarded every year, contributing to waste in landfills, recycling centres, and the environment. To help reduce this waste, carry a reusable drink bottle with you and refill it at public drinking fountains, cafes, or your accommodation. 

Carry your own cutlery

Carrying your own cutlery, including a knife, fork, and spoon, is a convenient way to reduce waste while camping or when getting takeaway meals in Southland. Refusing single-use plastic cutlery is an excellent way to travel sustainably and decrease waste.

Bring a reusable bag

While plastic bags have been banned in New Zealand, paper bags still have an environmental impact. To shop greener and make supermarket trips easier, carry a reusable bag with you. 

Shop sustainably

Shopping at local farmers' markets is another way to reduce the amount of packaging you use while supporting local growers. Let's work together to keep Southland clean and green.

And when it comes time to dispose of your waste, make sure you do this at the appropriate places. Around the region, we have a network of dump stations available for those travelling in a self-contained campervan. Please use these and dispose of waste responsibly.

Together, we can create a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come.

 

TŪ TAHI KI TE KEI - LET'S ALL STAND TOGETHER IN THE STERN OF OUR WAKA

Murihiku Southland

Mindful Travel