Swim with whales in the South Pacific

Planet

CARBON REDUCTION
Minimising Flights & Sustainable Transport:
Our trip encourages guests to minimise carbon emissions recommending overnight stays in Auckland to optimise flight schedules. Once in Niue, we use shared local transport such as group transfers and promote human-powered activities including guided hiking, cycling and snorkeling reducing reliance on motorised transport.
Eco-Friendly Accommodations & Local Sourcing:
The Scenic Matavai Resort Niue, where guests stay, incorporates sustainable practices such as water-saving initiatives and waste reduction programs. The resort sources a significant portion of its food locally and seasonally, supporting local farmers and reducing food miles. Vegetarian and vegan options are available daily to reduce dietary carbon footprints.

ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
Supporting Biodiversity & Conservation:
Our whale swimming tours operate with licensed, ethical operators trained to ensure all encounters are on the whales’ terms, respecting their natural behaviour and wellbeing. The trip includes visits and fees to protected marine areas around Niue, contributing directly to the conservation of the island’s unique marine biodiversity.
Sustainable Accommodation Practices & Community Engagement:
The accommodation partners actively reduce environmental impact through plastic reduction, recycling programs, and water conservation measures including rainwater harvesting. Cultural activities include learning traditional crafts which promote the preservation of indigenous knowledge and respect for Niue’s natural environment. Local expert guides from the community lead nature and cultural tours, enhancing visitor awareness and fostering nature-positive tourism.

People

LOCAL ECONOMY
Locally Owned Accommodations & Businesses:
All accommodations on this trip are locally owned, ensuring tourism income remains within Niue’s community. We maximize local economic benefits by employing local guides, supporting village visits, and encouraging guests to purchase handmade crafts and products from community cooperatives.
Community Engagement & Cultural Experiences:
Our itinerary includes authentic cultural activities such as traditional basket weaving workshops led by Niuean artisans, and visits to local markets, creating direct income opportunities for local people while enriching the visitor experience.

Local Employment & Fair Wages:
Our local partners emplly local guides and ground staff who are Niuean, with all staff paid at least the local minimum wage or above. This supports fair employment and ensures economic benefits go directly to the island’s people.
Inclusivity & Accessibility:
The retreat welcomes all guests, including those from LGBTQ+ communities, and is suitable for people with limited mobility or sensory impairments wherever possible. We continually work with local partners to improve accessibility and inclusivity.
Empowerment of Marginalized Groups:
Our local partners create opportunities for women and indigenous community members by involving them in guiding, hospitality, and craft activities, supporting empowerment and cultural preservation.