The Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat, which was named one of Time magazine’s World’s 100 Greatest Places in 2019, is showing that luxury accommodation doesn’t have to cost the earth.
As New Zealand’s only net-positive energy accommodation, Camp Glenorchy is pioneering an ambitious sustainable accommodation model.
This year, the retreat was awarded the world’s first International Living Future Institute (ILFI) Certification of Sustainability for visitor accommodations.
The prestigious certification calls for the creation of building projects that exist as cleanly, beautifully and efficiently as nature does.
Achieving this commendation is no easy feat. Measuring up to 20 rigorous ILFI requirements, including net-positive water, energy and waste, the retreat had to demonstrate results over 12 months of operation.
To achieve its ground-breaking sustainability goals, Camp Glenorchy uses 500 solar panels and an innovative energy management system that means it generates more power than it uses each year.
“Our goals at Camp Glenorchy have been to do the right thing for both the environment as well as our local community,” says Paul Brainerf, co-founder of Camp Glenorchy’s parent company, The Headwaters.
“Achieving ILFI certification for the team’s collective achievements is an honour that acknowledges the tremendous collaboration, creativity and focus on holistic results that have driven the work of the design team from the beginning.”
From luxury eco cabins to backpacker-style bunks, Camp Glenorchy hosts families, couples, groups, corporate retreats and special gatherings.
All profits go directly to the Glenorchy Community Trust, a charitable organisation that supports local community initiatives.
