Sustainability certified with Enviro-Gold status

Wellington Zoo is New Zealand’s first zoo to be awarded Qualmark certification, and the first visitor attraction in Wellington to be awarded Enviro-Gold status.

As tourism's official mark of quality, the Qualmark licence recognises the Zoo as one of New Zealand's leading tourism businesses. The Enviro-Gold endorsement represents environmental and social commitments to factors including energy efficiency, conservation initiatives, waste management, community activities and water conservation.

Karen Fifield, Chief Executive of the Zoo, says the endorsements are important for local and international visitors alike, and that the Enviro-Gold endorsement is a huge cause for celebration for a Zoo that strives towards sustainability.

"The Qualmark assessments are a rigorous process that put real focus on the service and systems we have in place here at the Zoo. The endorsement assures potential visitors that they will be well looked after, just as our Responsible Tourism Statement aims to assure them of our promise to maintain environmental, social and financial sustainability practices here.”

David Perks, Chief Executive of Positively Wellington Tourism, says "Qualmark's endorsement demonstrates Wellington Zoo's importance not only as a fantastic place for Wellingtonians to enjoy, but as a visitor destination.

“They have undergone some great developments recently and this recognition is another step on their journey to becoming the best little zoo in the world."

There are only 11 other visitor attractions in New Zealand with Enviro-Gold status, and the Zoo is the first in Wellington to achieve this. More information on the Zoo’s environmental and sustainability initiatives can be read at:

http://www.wellingtonzoo.com/content/conservation/sustainability.aspx

ENDS

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