Escape to Mother Nature

With headlines echoing rising concerns around climate change, 44 percent of Kiwi travellers say that recent news about climate change has influenced them to make more sustainable travel choices. With Mother’s Day fast approaching, what better way to show your appreciation for the mother figure in your life by planning an escape to Mother Nature this Mother’s Day?

Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel report for 2023 shows that 66% of Kiwi travellers want travel companies to offer more sustainable travel, having launched its Travel Sustainable Badge recognising accommodations for their sustainability efforts . Thankfully, you don’t have to travel far to spend a night or two at a sustainable stay. Here are five Travel Sustainable certified properties that tick all the boxes for you and Mum this Mother’s Day.

The Fairways Luxury Accommodation, Kaikoura

The Fairways Luxury Accommodation, Kaikōura

The picturesque coastal town of Kaikōura is the perfect place for marine life encounters, coastal walks, and tucking into a plate of sustainably sourced seafood. Kaikōura is an ecological playground for marine mammal encounters – whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters. Whale watching trips leave the town several times a day and the local seal colony is always entertaining.

Situated next to a golf course for our travellers who love to putt, Fairways Luxury Accommodation can be found along Kaikoura’s spectacular coastline. With luscious landscapes overlooking the countryside and enough rooms for the whole family. Fairways Luxury Accommodation also has numerous walking and bike trails to further immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

Woodside Bay Chalets, Waiheke Island

Waiheke is a haven of beautiful vineyards, olive groves and beaches, beloved by all who step foot on the island. The island is the go-to destination for those wanting to escape the big city without having to travel too far as it is just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland.

If you’re planning a weekend away in Waiheke, the Woodside Bay Chalet has a variety of wellness activities for all to participate in. Get your yoga mats out for some sun salutations or unwind with a well deserved hot stone massage. There are several packages on offer that are catered perfectly for indulgence and self-care in the intimate atmospheres where you can focus on your wellbeing in this divine Travel Sustainable find.

Heaven’s Rest B&B, Pukekohe

Equestrian and farm to plate garden fresh vegetables are just some of Pukekohe’s highlights. This large country town is always buzzing with activity and is just under an hour’s drive from Auckland’s bustling city centre.

Escape the city noise and surround yourself with farm land and animals at Heaven’s Rest B&B. Catch the sunset, or the sunrise while you take in the picturesque landscapes and fresh outdoor air. With available hot tubs for use, step in and unwind while you wait for your BBQ to grill on their outdoor deck.

Fable Terrace Downs Resort by MGallery

Set against the majestic backdrops of both alps and ocean, Canterbury has lush vineyards and wild coastlines along with sky-piercing mountains and pristine glacial lakes that is out of a movie scene.

Overlooking some of the most stunning golf courses and mountain peaks you can find in Canterbury, Fable Terrace Downs Resort has delicious first class dining experiences available inhouse for you to savour. Fable Terrace has both golf courses and tennis courts for you to spend a day in the sun. There are other nearby unique ventures for you to participate in including jet boating, clay bird shooting, quad biking and fishing.

Cascade Creek Retreat, Milton

Tucked away in the heart of the South Island, the historic town of Milton has a number of stunning heritage buildings that will take you back in time.

Cascade Creek Retreat is located 45 minutes away from Dunedin and is near a variety of calming bushwalks. This eco-friendly stay gets you feeling more down to Earth than you ever have before. Its romantic and private atmosphere helps couples enjoy their quality time on Mother’s Day. Take a dip in their outdoor tubs and open a bottle of your favourite wine. If you’re looking to explore a bit more, Cascade Creek Retreat is only a day trip away from the Catlins, get your feet sandy while you spot native seals and penguins or simply stay in and enjoy being away from the bustles of life.

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