Qualmark is a subsidiary of Tourism New Zealand and provides evidence that a business has been independently validated as a quality tourism business
In another step towards sustainable and regenerative ideals in New Zealand, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) has granted GSTC-Recognised Status to Qualmark’s Sustainable Tourism Business Criteria, becoming the first in New Zealand to achieve so.
Founded in 2007, the GSTC is a United Nations-initiated programme that establishes and manages global standards for sustainable travel and tourism, known as the GSTC Criteria.
Qualmark is a subsidiary of Tourism New Zealand and provides evidence that a business has been independently validated as a quality tourism business. It has more than 2,000 tourism business members.
Steven Dixon
In a press statement, Tourism New Zealand (TNZ) says that for Qualmark, the GSTC recognition means the Qualmark Standard helps tourism businesses become more sustainable from a people, environmental and operational perspective at a globally recognised level.
TNZ says this certification guarantees that all Qualmark businesses follow a recognised standard that aligns with universal criteria for sustainable management, social and economic benefits to the local community, cultural heritage preservation and the reduction of pollution. It adds that Qualmark Accommodation providers may be eligible to participate in GSTC’s Market Access programme where prominent online travel agencies (OTA’s) and various international travel providers highlight sustainable accommodation.
In May, Qualmark updated its criterion to be in line with the GSTC criterion, and as a result of this certification, it now complies with worldwide sustainability standards, TNZ adds.
Clinton Farley
It says that the tourism sector is transitioning to a regenerative system that gives back more than it takes to New Zealand and New Zealanders. Therefore, visitors must explore further, connect with communities and contribute positively to the nation’s economy and environment, it says.
“The new global status gives tourism businesses another reason to be proud of gaining Qualmark accreditation and helps to support their business and New Zealand’s transition to a regenerative tourism system,” says Steven Dixon, Qualmark General Manager.
“Each tourism business can play its part in protecting New Zealand and leading the way on sustainability. The GSTC’s validation will ensure alignment to global standards and empower our industry to lead the charge for a better tomorrow,” says Clinton Farley, Hotel Britomart General Manager.
Randy Durband
The statement adds that Qualmark Gold member Carino Wildlife Cruises creates dolphin cruises between wildlife and people in the Bay of Islands. General Manager Vanessa McKay says gaining ‘Recognised Status’ demonstrates commitment to global sustainability standards, a cause they are passionate about. “As a New Zealand tour operator our gold Qualmark award now represents alignment with global sustainability standards. We are proud to have Qualmark as our partner in our journey toward a more sustainable future for New Zealand,” she says.
“Qualmark demonstrates its dedication to a broad and global strategy by aligning with the principles of the Four Pillars of the GSTC Criteria, proving its commitment to a more sustainable future for New Zealand,” adds Randy Durband, GSTC Chief Executive Officer.
