OUR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
Here at NZSki we're on a mission to do the best we can by our unique environment. This has inspired us to make the ambitious commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030.
We’ve already reduced our emissions by over 50%, and we continue to chip away at that number with the aim of reducing a further 5% each year.
We're proudly guided by the concepts of kaitiakitanga (meaning: guardianship and protection) and manaakitanga (meaning: respect, generosity and care). We understand and acknowledge that our environment is the backbone of our operation, and it’s our responsibility to look after it.
We don't take anything we do for granted and our promise to share our passion for the mountain has never felt as important as it does right now, as we continue on our journey to carbon neutral by 2030.
At NZSki our primary greenhouse gas emission sources are diesel fuel - used for grooming, transport and building heating - and electricity. Together our three mountains produce approximately 3000 Tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1 and 2 only) annually.
What's Next
We’re keeping the momentum going with a big focus on cutting emissions, reducing waste, and boosting biodiversity. Here’s what’s coming up:
- 100% certified renewable electricity: We’ll stick with Meridian’s Certified Renewable Energy, keeping our mountain Scope 2 electricity emissions at zero.
Carbon credits: we will continue to purchase carbon credits until we no longer need to.
- Smarter fuel use: With new hybrid and PHEV vehicles in our fleet and SnowSat tracking for our groomers, we’re targeting big fuel efficiency gains.
Waste reduction: By 2030, we aim to cut food waste by 75%*, use 95% reusable tableware and reduce single use packaged items.
- Conservation programmes: Planting, revegetation, and pest control projects will stay in full swing at all our ski areas.
- On the right path: The continuation of NZSki’s Emission Reduction Initiatives – many of which can be found on this page.
- Leading the way together: We’re fully support Destination Queenstown’s audacious goal of becoming a carbon-zero destination by 2030. As one of the largest tourism operators in town, we are deeply committed to sharing our journey and insights with local businesses and the community. Through media, events, and forums we aim to inspire and empower others to join us in leading the way toward a more sustainable future.
*Using 2024 data as a baseline.
You’ll notice carbon offsetting is one part of our multi-pronged approach. We know this isn’t a long-term solution and overtime the native trees we plant will begin to sequester carbon, taking over from the credits we purchase. Our most important focus is ensuring we’re doing all we can to minimise our emissions through our carbon reduction initiatives.
To move towards our goal, we are committed to taking advantage of the very best technology available in the industry. Investigating and trialling any new technology is a big part of reaching carbon neutral by 2030.
We are always working to do more, but we think this is a pretty good start on our decarbonisation journey.
