MEDIA RELEASE
20 March 2026

For immediate release

New film showcases regenerative tourism in Hauraki Coromandel, New Zealand.

A new film released by Destination Hauraki Coromandel highlights how one New Zealand region is using tourism as an enabler for environmental restoration.

Through GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL – Kaitiaki, visitors, tourism businesses and local communities are working together to support native planting and predator control, helping restore the natural environments that define Hauraki Coromandel.

The short film features local operators sharing why they’ve chosen to be part of the initiative and how tourism can move beyond sustainability to actively contribute to conservation.

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/o-deppxod0M

Grounded in the concept of kaitiakitanga (guardianship of people and place), the initiative builds on New Zealand’s Tiaki Promise, turning the idea of caring for a destination into tangible action.

Visitors are given a simple way to give back, with native tree donations supporting restoration projects across the region and contributing to predator control efforts that protect native wildlife.

Since launching, the initiative has seen growing support from both businesses and visitors, with measurable impact already being achieved:

• Contributions from 19 countries
• 49 business supporters involved
• 1,944 native trees donated
• $1,944 directed to predator control 
• 2 AT220 predator traps installed

Each contribution helps restore native habitats and protect species unique to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Kate from Driving Creek, featured in the film, said the initiative has resonated strongly with visitors: "Our guests love knowing they can leave something positive behind. It turns a visit into something more meaningful."

"Everything that brings people here is tied to the environment. Looking after it isn't optional, it's essential to the future of this place and the experiences it offers." Says Casey Owen, Destination Executive at Destination Hauraki Coromandel. "This is about making it easy for tourism to give back, and working as a region to ensure tourism gives more than it takes."

The initiative positions Hauraki Coromandel as a destination where tourism gives back by actively restoring the environment it relies on.

If you’d like to learn more about the initiative or speak with someone involved, feel free to get in touch.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Contact: Casey Owen, Destination Executive, Destination Hauraki Coromandel. Casey@haurakicoromandel.com

Video: https://youtu.be/o-deppxod0M

Images: https://thecoromandel.brandkitapp.com/transfers/01KKYXH5362HV0CFYMV9R7XKCG

GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL - Kaitiaki website
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