All our rooms are insulated to save power and have energy efficient LED lighting. All windows have been retrofitted with double glazing and sensor lights reduce electricity consumption in our entrance hall, staircase and upstairs hallway. When not in use, all power outlets are switched off. A heat pump in each room and in the hallway provides heating and cooling to meet each guest's preferences.
Our premium Linden Leaves toiletries are regionally sourced (Christchurch) and decanted from bulk into re-fillable pump bottles to avoid the use of single use packaging. Our cleaning chemicals are also sourced regionally in bulk from Christchurch and decanted into re-fillable spray bottles. Our bin liners are biodegradable and although rubbish is collected in just one bin per room, we then sort it to extract recyclables and compostables. Nescafe coffee pods are also taken to our local garden center for recycling.
Milk is decanted from large recyclable PE milk bottles into insulated bottles which are placed in the fridge in each room to avoid the use of portion-controlled milk. Similarly, glass jars of Barker's preserves & sauces are placed in the fridges of both communal sitting rooms for guests to use. We don't use mini packs of jams and spreads.
We offer fresh towels after two nights and fresh linen after three nights stay, or upon request.
We have measured our carbon footprint using the EKOS business lite calculator and estimate that our carbon footprint is less than Ten Tonnes of Co2 per year. A major reason for this light footprint is that our innovative "virtual" business model does not require an on-site receptionist/office. Our part time reception staff work from their own homes, on call and don't need to drive to and from work every day. And because we are surrounded by Geraldine's vibrant hospitality precinct, we don't need to operate our own commercial kitchen. We source & and hand deliver breakfast, supper & dinner platters produced in the Barker's Foodstore & Eatery next door.
Our approach is well summed up in the Tiaki Promise. New Zealand is precious, and everyone who lives and travels here has a responsibility to look after it. The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now and for future generations. We are making a commitment to New Zealand. To act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our home. We have signed up as supporters of The Tourism Sustainability Commitment.
The Vicarage Geraldine has gained a 5 Star Gold Boutique & Lodge rating with a Gold sustainable tourism business award. This annual certification is by Qualmark, whose Sustainable Tourism Business (STB) Criteria are Recognised by the GSTC for being equivalent to the GSTC Industry Criteria.
