The Alpine Pacific Touring Route is an incredibly beautiful environment. It is our taonga (our treasure), and our whenua (our land). We care deeply about this region, and the gifts it provides to us and our guests.
New Zealand is precious, and everyone who lives and travels here has a responsibility to look after it. The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now and for future generations.
Tiaki is derived from the Māori word Kaitiakitanga, meaning guardianship, our responsibility to care for our environment.
By following the Tiaki Promise, you are making a commitment to New Zealand. To act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our home.
When travelling along the Alpine Pacific Touring Route, there are things you can do to help care for New Zealand by following the Tiaki Promise:
1. Drive carefully.
It's easy to underestimate travelling times. Our roads are narrower, can be windy in some parts and steeper in parts you might not expect. Keep left, and drive to the conditions.
2. Be prepared.
Here in New Zealand, we experience a vast array of weather conditions. You begin a hike and it be perfectly sunny, only to find an hour in the weather is taking a turn for the worst. Check the weather conditions ahead of time and make sure to follow NZTA for updates on any road closures.
3. Show respect.
New Zealand is a modern and multicultural country, with endless opportunities to educate all types of travellers on our diversity and rich history. Be open and curious and you may walk away from your time in New Zealand with a better understanding of our Kiwi way of living.
4. Protect nature.
There is a vast amount of nature to be found along this route, from deep-diving whales, acrobatic dolphins, wild coastline, rugged inland walks and everything in-between. Plant a tree, donate to a local charity or get involved with volunteer work. Our region is full of epic landscapes and beautiful marine life, and we want to keep it that way.
5. Keep NZ clean.
By treading lightly and leaving no trace, you're looking after the land for future generations. The same goes for when you see irresponsible behaviour. Use the recycling bins where provided, practice being a #TidyKiwi.
While travelling on the Alpine Pacific Touring Route, follow the Tiaki Promise: Care for land, sea and nature, treading lightly and leaving no trace; Travel safely, showing care and consideration for all; Respect culture, travelling with an open heart and mind. Act as a guardian.
Check out the Alpine Pacific’s Sustainability Story to see how our region is working to preserve our environment.
Ko Aotearoa tō tātou ukaipō. New Zealand is our home.
Manaaki whenua, manaaki tangata, haere whakamua. Care for the land, care for the people, go forward.
Tiaki Promise