Environmental Statement

Matua Gardens Retreat is situated in a secluded natural environment. From the date of its purchase and development into guest accommodation the natural environment has been central to the design and planning. Our maxim is “first do no harm” and then “improve what we can”. The guest suite was developed using the existing saw miller’s cottage & recycling materials from it, to create an area of relaxation, for couples to connect with nature & with each other. To gain an Enviro-Gold award we had to create a statement. It’s a serious subject but we still like to have fun.

Our current policies are:

• A firm commitment to awareness of up to date best practice and implementing the same. (In other words we read a lot!)
• Utilise natural resources when appropriate eg sunshine and wind. (We dry our laundry outside, use gravel on driveways & paths etc)
• Work with the environment to make optimum use of natural resources.(we use spring & rain water)
• Regular discussion of new ideas and options. (And we talk a lot!)
• Implementation of approved practices and ideas (And make it all work)
• Discussion and documentation of outcomes. (More talking)
• To comply with all relevant regulations and legislation (More reading)
• To become educated, and where appropriate, certified in relevant practices e.g. first aid, food safety, Growsafe.
• Annual Qualmark assessment.
• Regularly monitor all policies & procedures using KPIs (we record our energy consumption & check it’s not increasing)
• Maintain a safe working environment. (Among other things Richard is encouraged to wear his hard hat & chaps when he’s chainsawing!!)
• Use physical rather than chemical means of weed & pest control and cleaning. (Weeding & elbow grease)
• Use home grown, local and NZ produce whenever possible. (Why not? It’s the best!)
• Use NZ made products when possible.
• To make informed choices about products taking into account social, environmental & cultural aspects.(Fairtrade)
• Use environmentally responsible products. (Like Ecostore)
• To continue invasive exotic species weed and pest control. (Creepy things & furry things that bite!)
• To continue planting, encouraging regeneration of native habitats.
• Continue bird monitoring programmes at a community and property level. (Just checking to see if we are doing any good)
• Encourage others to gain knowledge of and participate in weed & pest control, bird monitoring & replanting.(More talking!)
• To support, physically and financially, environmental organisations and community initiatives.(Putting our money & our time where our mouths are)
• To re-use and recycle when possible and encourage guests to do the same.(More than one rubbish bin)
• To encourage suppliers to use recyclable containers and reduce waste.(Even more talking)
• To replace appliances and products, as they wear out, with the most energy efficient that are suitable for the task.

Matua Gardens Retreat is operated by the owners, Sue & Richard Lovett. We have a firm commitment to improving the natural environment while providing a first class luxury experience. No guests are harmed or inconvenienced by our environmental policy