With everything that’s going on in the world at this time, it’s important to focus on what you can control, so we thought we’d drop in with some top tips for sustainability through the lock-down.

Now is not the time to be making drastic changes, we’ve all got enough to deal with, but some simple tweaks, or even just a new found awareness is the perfect place to start…

Focus on Food Waste

One of the easiest ways to make a big difference to your environmental impact is to minimise waste, and the kitchen is a great place to start. If you’ve got some extra time on your hands at home, or you’re looking for ways to keep the kids entertained, how about trying some new recipes?

There are plenty of tips online about using food that you would usually throw away, like amazing soups from broccoli stalks and leftover veggies. Look for ways to get creative with your leftovers like fried rice or pies, or just about anything with scrambled egg!

Cooking up a storm in the kitchen is also a good way to minimise your use of plastic packaging. Every batch of cookies you make, or loaf of bread you bake at home is some plastic wrapping that won’t end up in landfill, and who doesn’t love the smell of fresh baking filling the house?

See how Waimangu are getting on top of food waste with the help of some 4 legged friends!

Support Local

It’s a challenging and uncertain time for everyone. Many local businesses are struggling to get by and will need your support to survive after the lock down. Now is a great time to have a look online and find out about local businesses near you. Give them a quick follow on social media, join their mailing lists and you could soon be seeing some great special offers to tempt people back once the lockdown is over.

Some of these local businesses may still be trading as essential businesses through online sales and delivery. Grab yourself some lockdown treats, some locally made wine for date night on the deck, a beer from your local brewery for Zoom chats with your mates, or some locally grown produce for your favourite comfort food meals.

See how our retail store is supporting local with NZ made gifts and clothing.

Look after your local area

If you’re getting out and about in your neighbourhood for some fresh air, think about taking a bag and some gloves along with you. A quick litter pick may not feel like you’re making a big difference, but many hands make light work, and you may inspire others to do the same. Don’t forget to wash your hands properly when you get back.

Check out this story on the Waimangu team looking after our local area as part of Plastic Free July last year.

Research sustainable tourism options

There’s nothing like being stuck at home to get the wanderlust cranking. While you’re dreaming of your next escape, take some time to consider the environmental impact of your trip and look into sustainable tourism.

The places you choose to visit when you’re away can make a huge difference. Many tourism businesses are putting initiatives in place to reduce carbon emissions, invest in conservation or the protection of threatened wildlife, or give back to the local community. Supporting these businesses minimises the negative impact of your next trip and can give you the feel good fuzzies as well!

Find out more about sustainability at Waimangu and the initiatives we are working on.

Explore your back yard

It’s likely that our first steps into the outside world are going to be local ones. Many of us have a host of incredible places to explore right on our doorsteps, and we often take these for granted in favour of that iconic international destination.

Being a tourist in your own back yard gives you a new appreciation of your home town, and many tourism businesses will be very pleased to see you when the time is right to start exploring. Start your wish list now and keep an eye out for locals’ deals and discounts once the restrictions start lifting.