New zealand is a country filled with scenic landscapes and national parks, along with an indigenous culture (Māori) with deep connections to nature.
After spending a glorious 2 weeks exploring New Zealand on an eco-friendly trip, we came across a few green hotels that are taking steps to protect this country’s natural beauty and limit their carbon footprint.
Here is our curated list of the best eco hotels in New Zealand (North Island), a mix of luxury and affordable options. As usual, we only included the ones that could actually show their sustainable efforts clearly, and did not include those that we felt were greenwashing (for instance claiming to be sustainable but then offering plastic utensils or disposable toiletries).
Located in Ohakune in North Island, Nightsky Cottage is a luxurious, award-winning, 5* star eco retreat.
This accommodation is albeit a bit pricey (over €400), but perhaps worth it for those willing to spend this much. It is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself and with nature, or just to have a relaxing day after exploring New Zealand. There’s a patio where you can sit and enjoy the sun and sound of birds around you.
The Nightsky Cottage is not a hotel with a bunch of rooms. There is only one cottage (they also call it a chalet), and it’s like a fancy little house, big enough for 2 couples or a family of 3 or 4. It has 2 bedrooms with king-sized beds, a living room, a fully-equipped kitchen, a dining and lounge area, a fireplace, and two bathtubs in the bathroom, which has a separate area for the toilet (I always appreciate when these are separated from the main bathroom).
The cottage has won a couple of awards for their eco-friendly efforts, particularly the Qualmark Environmental Gold Award and Qualmark 100% Pure New Zealand Experience 2021 Awards. This is how they practise sustainability:
Check out Nightsky Cottage rates here.
These 4* apartment eco hotels are located close to the city centre of Cambridge, close to Matamata (where the Hobbiton movie set is) and Hamilton.
By the way, these were two of my favourite activities in the area: a tour of the Hobbiton movie set and the Waitomo Glowworm caves.
The apartment hotels offer a restaurant, a bar, a fitness gym open 24 hours, a meeting room, laundry and dry cleaning facilities, a scenic lounge, and a small spa with views. You can choose between hotel rooms, or 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, all soundproofed.
The hotel is minimalistic but elegant, and offers great views of the surrounding nature. The apartments are ideal for those that want access to a kitchen and a proper living area rather than a hotel room.
Check out Hidden Lake Hotel rates here.
A 5* accommodation by Lake Taupo, Chalet Eiger offers spacious, elegant suites with views of the lake or the surrounding gardens.
Priding themselves on Manaakitanga, meaning hospitality, the hosts at Chalet Eiger put a lot of emphasis on the comfort of their guests. It’s a great option for a romantic getaway, which the hosts Peter and Nina are happy to accommodate with special activities.
The dogs (Bella and Rufus) and Otto the cat are a fun little extra that brings joy to guests, but if you have allergies you just need to inform Peter and Nina, and they will keep them away.
Certified by Qualmark, an accreditation organisation that helps businesses become sustainable, Chalet Eiger focuses on reducing its impact in the following ways:
Check out Chalet Eiger rates here.
Located along the bay in Tauranga, a more affordable, eco-friendly option is Wanderlust NZ hostel, a 5* hostel on the waterfront, with options to share rooms or book a private one.
For travellers that enjoy meeting other fellow travellers, or want more of a community vibe on their New Zealand trip, Wanderlust NZ is the perfect place to stay. With options to share dorms like any backpacker hostel, or choose a private ensuite bedroom, there’s comfort and connections for everyone.
You can enjoy gorgeous views of the harbour from the sun deck (it has a hammock!), or hang out in the lounge, which also offers great views. There’s laundry and luggage storage facilities on site, but no parking (there’s a parking lot across the street but it’s closed overnight).
Wanderlust NZ is certified by Qualmark, and this is how they care for people and the planet:
Check out Wanderlust Hostel rates here.
A family-owned farm, Mangarara is a big land that includes lakes, hills, wetlands, and peat flats. Located in Ōtāne, it’s a great place to rejuvenate and connect with nature, far from city noise.
If you like birds and animals, nature, and you’re travelling in a group, it’s the best accommodation option. The lodge is right in front of a bird sanctuary, and there are swans, sheep, cattle as well. There is also an education centre on the farm.
It’s ideal for families or friends groups, as the lodge is more like a house. There are 4 bedrooms, all leading to the deck and lake. There is a fully equipped kitchen, a fireplace in the living room area, and fresh produce and food right from the farm.
Ths 4* hotel in Taupō is close to Huka Falls, a major attraction in the area. If you’re planning to stay around Lake Taupō and explore the region, Wairakei Resort is a great option.
There are two heated pools (from geothermal steam) at the resort, as well as tennis courts, a playground, a squash court, meeting rooms, a lounge, a spa, a gym, and a golf course. There are various rooms to choose from, including a family village. The decor is a bit dated, but the rooms are welcoming and clean.
Wairakei Resort is a 4* resort certified by Qualmark, and holds a Gold accreditation, meaning that it’s one of the best sustainable businesses in New Zealand.
Check out Wairakei Resort rates here.
This 5* hotel is located right in the city centre of Auckland, making it a great option for those on business trips or staying in the city area.
Despite its central location, The Hotel Britomart offers a calm and beautiful space, a refuge from the city right outside. You can choose between guest rooms or luxury suites. There is a restaurant onsite, libraries that are great for private events, and the hotel offers special packages based on your needs.
Check out The Hotel Britomart rates here.
Our curated list selected the most green hotels in New Zealand from a long list. From budget to luxury, farms to cottages to city hotels, you will find one that suits you and your ideal trip.
While you plan your NZ trip, make sure to check out New Zealand culture and customs for proper etiquette.
