Environmental Care and Conservation
We are privileged to operate within a world heritage area. On your mountain trip you will be living in a beautiful and delicate environment. Please join us in endorsing the philosophy of, “take only photographs, leave only footprints”.
Kea Conservation Trust
The Kea (Nestor notabilis) is a true alpine parrot, endemic to the Southern Alps of New Zealand. These amazing and intelligent birds are sadly (like so much else) endangered. We are proud to sponsor the Kea Conservation Trust.
Please visit the Trust's website to learn about current research projects, and how to support them ›
NZ Environmental and Water Care Code with DOC
Alpine Guides are concessionaires of NZ's Department of Conservation (DOC). A concession is required for a business to operate inside a national park area.
As part of the agreement we minimise our impact on the land and water, and respect cultural heritage.
Read more on DOC's website about our obligations:
Aircraft Use for Guided Mountaineering
Unfortunately the Southern Alps has few areas that are easily accessible on foot. There is limited road penetration and no cable cars.
Light aircraft are commonly used to access Mt Cook and Westland mountain hut venues. This is due to the length of approaches, and to make best use of fine weather.
When possible we share aircraft with other parties - to reduce costs and the number of flights required.
Nearly all of our mountain trips include the option to walk out of the mountains ›
Waste, reduction, removal and recycling
We carry out all waste material from our trips. Whenever camping or bivvying is required you will be provided with a special container - for your own waste.
Plastics, glass, aluminum, tin, cardboard, and paper products are collected in Mt Cook village for recycling.
There is very little food wastage. We buy in fresh produce for each trip, and have a bulk store.
