Sustainability

At Rydges Rotorua, we’re choosing better for our guests, our community and our environment.

Nestled in the heart of Rotorua and surrounded by unique geothermal landscapes, we recognise the importance of protecting the natural resources that make this destination so special. Through thoughtful operational practices and sustainable initiatives, we’re working to reduce our environmental impact while creating meaningful guest experiences.

ECO Certified Sustainable Tourism

We are proud to be ECO Certified Sustainable Tourism through Ecotourism Australia’s internationally recognised certification program. This certification recognises our commitment to sustainable tourism practices that deliver positive environmental, cultural, social and economic outcomes while meeting globally recognised standards.

Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award

Awarded Qualmark Gold, recognising our commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences while meeting New Zealand’s Sustainable Tourism Business standards.

Sourcing Responsibly

Choosing to work with suppliers and source products that align with our sustainability principles.

So far we have:

• Replaced single-use bathroom amenities with refillable pump dispensers.
• Installed water refill stations in guest areas and provided glass carafes in rooms.
• Partnered with The Udder Way to supply milk on tap via reusable kegs.
• Sourced juice in reusable containers to reduce packaging waste.
• Partnered with local food and beverage suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability.
• Maintained two on-site beehives that produce honey enjoyed by guests during their stay.

Designing for the Future

Choosing to actively embed sustainability into how we design, refresh and operate the property.

We have measures in place to improve energy and water efficiency across our operations, including:

• Heating our swimming pool using Rotorua’s natural geothermal energy.
• Energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the hotel, with motion sensors in selected areas.
• Electric vehicle charging stations available for guests.
• Installing high-efficiency appliances as part of hotel upgrades.
• Operating air conditioning systems with low-impact refrigerants.
• Transitioning from water-cooled to air-cooled chillers to reduce water consumption.
• Landscaping with native, drought-tolerant plant species.

Minimising Waste and Recycling Responsibly

Choosing to minimise and manage waste in a sustainable way while maximising recycling opportunities.

We minimise waste by:

• Offering paperless check-in and check-out.
• Providing a digital guest compendium and online room service ordering.
• Setting up meeting rooms without notepads and pens unless requested.
• Returning packaging materials to suppliers wherever possible.
• Donating furniture and surplus items from refurbishments to local charities.
• Diverting food waste from landfill through EcoStock’s sustainable food waste recovery programme.

We maximise recycling by:

• Providing recycling bins in all guest rooms.
• Recycling paper, cardboard, glass, metals and most plastics throughout the hotel.

Playing Our Part

Choosing to empower our guests to make sustainable choices and reduce their environmental footprint.

We have:

• Introduced our Room Refresh Program, allowing guests to skip daily room servicing in exchange for a food and beverage credit.
• Reduced paper use through digital guest services and online ordering platforms.
• Encouraged guests to participate in waste reduction and recycling initiatives during their stay.
• Utilised renewable geothermal energy to heat our swimming pool.

Supporting Our Partnerships

Choosing to maintain strong connections with our local community and support businesses that share our values.

We support:

• Local food and beverage suppliers throughout the Rotorua region.
• Community initiatives through donations and local partnerships.

Join Us in Choosing to Protect Our Environment

We encourage our guests to support sustainable tourism through simple actions:

• Participate in our Room Refresh Program to help reduce water and energy consumption.
• Use water and energy efficiently during your stay.
• Make use of recycling facilities provided throughout the hotel.
• Refill reusable water bottles at our water stations.
• Choose locally made and responsibly sourced souvenirs.
• Consider lower-emission transport options, including electric vehicles where possible.

A Stay That Makes a Difference

Every choice we make, and every choice our guests make, helps reduce waste, protect natural resources and support the Rotorua community. Together, we can help keep this remarkable destination thriving for future generations.

Rydges Rotorua acknowledges ngā iwi o Māori as the tangata whenua of Aotearoa New Zealand and recognises their rich contribution to society.

As an EVT Hotel, we are committed to doing business in a way that contributes to a better tomorrow for our customers, communities and environment. To learn more, visit EVT’s Our Environment page.