Kuaka New Zealand Ltd

Our aim is to provide students, secondary, tertiary, and beyond, with an in depth and hands on experience of New Zealand culture and environment that reflects the interconnections between the people and the land. Our programs give a first hand experience of New Zealand in a program designed to be sustainable, allowing visitors to give something back to the local community and environment that they have visited. We have formed invaluable links with the indigenous people of the area, local and regional councils and national bodies to ensure programs assist their environmental management plan implementation.

Kuaka New Zealand is committed to building strong, healthy communities through business practices that reflect unsurpassed environmental and social values. Because of this commitment Kuaka has been a participant in the Green Globe Programme since July 2007 and is currently Bronze Benchmarked. Green Globe is a worldwide benchmarking and certification system for the Travel and Tourism Industry. For more information contact Green Globe +64 7 579 6178

Why New Zealand?
Described by National Geographic as a world in miniature, New Zealand is a land of rare natural beauty and breathtaking contrasts.New Zealand evolved over millions of years in total isolation resulting in up to 80% of our native fauna and flora being unique. New Zealand is a young bicultural country made up of the indigenous Maori people and Pakeha (descendants of European settlers) each influencing the other, yet both retaining their individual essence. The interpretation of New Zealand's fascinating culture and history in a land of unspoilt beauty provides the ideal environment for programs such as human and physical geography, ecology, anthropology and innovation.

What does Kuaka mean?
Our name, 'Kuaka' is the Maori name for the Godwit, a bird that travels between Alaska and our location here in the Bay of Plenty of New Zealand every year. The Godwit come to New Zealand to replenish and revitalize themselves before their long journey back to the northern hemisphere. In Maori culture, birds are considered to carry knowledge, and this bird is believed to be a bringer of positive messages.

After experiencing a Kuaka New Zealand program we trust that, like the Godwit, you will return home nourished, fulfilled and inspired with an appreciation of New Zealand's people, land, and sustainable practices

We invite you to share these experiences with us!