In Qualmark’s Backpacker category, only 13 backpackers have been awarded a Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award in New Zealand. 11 of these are YHA hostels.
It’s not just about fancy shampoos and a mint on your pillow – what’s really important is whether your accommodation provider is committed to the environment.
Qualmark operates responsible tourism standards as part of its assessment processes. High performers are eligible to apply for the use of a logo that represents three levels of sustainable business performance, along with a star rating indicative of quality.
All eligible YHA-managed hostels have achieved a Gold Award.
Current Qualmark Sustainable Tourism Business Awards for our hostels:
YHA-managed hostels
YHA Auckland International 4 Star Gold
YHA Christchurch 4 Star Plus Gold
YHA Franz Josef 4 Star Gold
YHA Aoraki Mt Cook 4 Star Plus Gold
YHA Queenstown Central 3 Star Plus Gold
YHA Queenstown Lakefront 5 Star Gold
YHA Rotorua 5 Star Gold
YHA Te Anau 4 Star Plus Gold
YHA Wanaka 4 Star Gold
YHA Wellington 5 Star Gold
Franchise and Associate hostels
YHA Bay of Islands Paihia 4 Star Silver
YHA Kinloch, Glenorchy 4 Star Plus Silver
YHA Nelson 5 Star Gold
YHA Springfield 4 Star Silver
In 2019 Qualmark also included an extra incentive for performers in the form of the Pure New Zealand experience award. Applications are open only to Gold Sustainable Tourism Businesses who are then vetted by a panel of judges. We're delighted that YHA Aoraki Mt Cook was recognised as a finalist at the inaugural awards. Read the article
