Release Private Retreat achieves Green Tourism Benchmark

Luxury accommodation provider Release Private Retreat has achieved Tourism New Zealand’s Qualmark Green rating for environmentally responsible tourism attaining an Enviro-Silver ranking.

Co founder Nick Frame is pleased with the award and said it reflects our vision to create a sustainable retreat, to last a lifetime. “Our luxury accommodation offers indulgence and this does not need to have a big environmental cost. We have taken steps to limit our environmental impact to ensure our stunning region can be enjoyed, both now and in the future. Attaining the rating assures guests we are conscious of our surroundings and adhere to responsible tourism,” he said.

Release's passive solar design reduces the need for heating and has many water and energy efficient features including storm-water catchment, wool insulation, argon-filled windows and the native garden is irrigated with recycled water. Guests are treated to organic skin-care products while the retreat only uses eco-friendly cleaning products.

Only two hundred and fifty tourism businesses nationwide have achieved a Qualmark Green rating. Operators are independently assessed in energy efficiency, waste reduction, water management, and involvement in conservation and community activities. They must provide evidence they have processes and programmes in place to monitor and improve performance across these areas.

Release is already highly rated (five star) under the existing Qualmark quality accreditation programme, confirming their position as among the best in New Zealand.

Qualmark is New Zealand tourism’s official quality accreditation programme. The launch of Qualmark Green enviro-ratings last year made Qualmark the world’s first fully-integrated environmental and quality accreditation programme for tourism.

Nestled in native bush with commanding views across Lake Wanaka to Mount Aspiring National Park, Release: Private Retreat is an architecturally-designed luxury retreat and accommodates six adults comfortably. Exclusive use of the retreat includes the full concierge service to arrange Release adventures, private chef or sommelier or any other detail that completes the ultimate experience.

For further information, visit www.releasenz.com or view online video at www.vimeo.com/3532717.