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Environment

The New Zealand environment is a taonga – a treasure. Few countries on earth have as much forest cover. Our forest birds are often unique to these islands. Those who use our back-country paths do so best as kaitiaki – not just observers and participants in a wild environment, but as guardians.

Environmental 10 Commandments.

1. Protect plants and animals

Treat New Zealand’s forests and birds with care and respect. The forest birds are usually unique species, and often rare.

2. Remove rubbish

Litter is unattractive, harmful to wildlife and can increase vermin and disease. Always carry out what you carry in.

3. Bury toilet waste

In areas without toilet facilities, bury your toilet waste in a shallow hole well away from waterways, tracks, campsites and huts.

4. Keep streams and lakes clean

Best not to use soap.  If you do, drain used water into the soil to allow it to be filtered. If you suspect the water may be contaminated, either boil it for at least 3 minutes, filter it, or chemically treat it.

5. Take care with fires

Portable fuel stoves are less harmful to the environment and are more efficient than fires. If you do use a  fire, keep it small, use only dead wood and make sure it is out by dousing it with water and checking the ashes before leaving.

6. Camping

When camping, leave no trace of your visit.

7. Keep to the track

By keeping to the track you lessen the chance of damaging fragile plants.

8. Consider others

People visit the back country and rural areas for many reasons. Be considerate of other visitors who  also have a right to enjoy the natural environment.

9. Respect our culture

Many places in New Zealand have a spiritual and historical significance. Treat these places with respect.

10. Toitu te whenua

Leave the land undisturbed.

Adapted from the Department of Conservation Environmental checklist. 

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