Taking home the prize for 'Trailblazer small and medium business' at the recent Sustainable Business Network Awards, Tahi estate on the Matakana coast is a sustainable destination offering unparalled experiences of New Zealand and honey made on site.
An old cattle farm overrun with pests, Tahi was once aplace of few native birds where forests and wetlands were slipping into degradation.
But its revitilisation has seen over 180, 000 native plants planted, 65 native bird species introduced and the on site production of honey.
Now the largest employer in the district, the estate maintains a policy of employing local people and has built strong ties with local iwi.
For visitors to the estate, they'll experience 4.5 star accomodation in holiday houses run by sustainable means, including heating the homes with fires using surplus storm felled trees.
Manager and co-owner of the estate, Dr John Craig, says Tahi is a family business building for the long term.
". . . hence sustainability is our only option. We also believe sustainability defines our clientele - people with a commitment to the future - there will be many more of them."
Tahi Estate is a 'Long Run Destination' meaning it is noted as a location that provides and builds sustainable, tourism-driven enterprises in conjunction with fostering community development and cultural stewardship.
