Eco-friendly and sustainability

Image of Treghan's gardenOur Approach

At Treghan, sustainability sits alongside comfort – not in place of it.

We believe it is possible to offer a high-quality stay while caring for the environment, supporting local community, and protecting what makes this part of the Bay of Islands special.

Set amongst established gardens in Kerikeri, Treghan takes a thoughtful and practical approach to sustainability, incorporating locally sourced products, careful resource use, and ongoing planting and environmental initiatives throughout the property.

Our aim is to create a stay that feels calm, comfortable and connected to place, while helping preserve the environment for future generations.

Supporting Community and Local Producers

Wherever possible, Treghan supports local suppliers, makers and businesses throughout the guest experience.

This includes sourcing local and organic products where practical, supporting Northland artists through Little Black Gallery, and working with local trades and suppliers wherever possible.

We also value the strong connection Aotearoa New Zealand has with the natural environment and aim to reflect that care and respect throughout the property and guest experience.

The Tiaki Promise

Tiaki means “to care for and protect” in Te Reo Māori.

Under the Tiaki – Care for New Zealand initiative, the Tiaki Promise encourages travellers to care for the land, waterways and communities while travelling in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Treghan became a partner with Tourism Industry Aotearoa’s sustainable tourism programme in 2018, supporting a nationwide commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism developed alongside key organisations across the country.

This programme is based around four key areas:

  • Economic sustainability
  • Visitor sustainability
  • Community sustainability
  • Environmental sustainability

Our sustainable environmental practices

When we purchased Treghan, we built two new two-bedroom guesthouses, created a one-bedroom self-contained guesthouse, and refurbished the existing property.

Throughout this process, we implemented a range of practical sustainability measures designed to reduce environmental impact while improving guest comfort.

Building, Water and Energy

  • Installing a bio-cycle sewage system for Birdsong and Tranquility Retreats, allowing grey and waste water to be recycled for garden irrigation
  • Fitting double glazing with draught-proof seals to improve energy efficiency and comfort
  • Installing high-quality insulation throughout the guesthouses
  • Collecting rainwater through 31,000 litre tanks for use in guesthouses and gardens
  • Installing efficient filtration systems for water use
  • Using Energy Star rated appliances wherever possible
  • Using energy-efficient LED lighting throughout
  • Installing underfloor heating systems designed to minimise energy use
  • Using solid oak flooring to reduce environmental impact
  • Designing verandahs and overhangs for natural heat control and shade
  • Installing LED drive lighting with timers
  • Using low VOC paints throughout

Everyday Operations and Guest Experience

In addition, we:

  • Do not use sprays on the property
  • Provide eco-friendly and organic cleaning supplies and toiletries
  • Use biodegradable and environmentally friendly cleaning products
  • Encourage guests to reuse towels rather than replacing them daily
  • Use dual flush toilets to conserve water
  • Source organic or spray-free produce wherever possible
  • Offer organic New Zealand wines
  • Separate and recycle waste into glass, plastic, metal, paper and cardboard
  • Use LED lighting across the entire property
  • Install solar lighting for pathways and gardens
  • Use motion sensors to reduce unnecessary lighting
  • Use energy-efficient heat pumps
  • Monitor energy, water and waste usage regularly
  • Provide guests with information about our sustainability practices

Gardens, Community and Local Support

We also:

  • Support local artists through our onsite gallery
  • Offer employment to local residents
  • Train staff in sustainable practices and health and safety
  • Recycle linen and clothing through local organisations
  • Plant native and exotic trees for shade, shelter and carbon mitigation

Planting  For The Future

While it is not possible to eliminate the carbon footprint of travel entirely, we believe it is important to take practical steps to reduce our impact and contribute positively to the environment around us.

For every guest stay, we fund and plant a tree or shrub at Treghan.  Initially, this was done on behalf of guests. Since April 2018, we have invited guests to take part in the planting process themselves.   If guests are unable to participate, we provide an image of their tree being planted, so they can still be part of the experience.

Since taking over the property, we have planted more than 7,000 trees, shrubs and plants, contributing to the ongoing greening of Treghan and helping create the peaceful gardens, native planting and birdlife guests enjoy during their stay.