New Zealand Shifts Towards Sustainable Tourism: Eco Friendly Travel on the Rise in 2025

Published on September 24, 2025

New Zealand is seeing a rise in eco-conscious travel trends, as more than half of its travellers are becoming increasingly aware of their impact on the environment and local communities. The latest Europ Assistance Holiday Barometer, released in 2025, reveals that 71% of New Zealand travellers are now prioritizing sustainable practices while exploring new destinations. Additionally, 69% are opting for transport options that contribute to lower carbon emissions. This growing trend highlights a shift towards sustainable tourism as New Zealanders balance their love for adventure with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. With more travellers seeking ethical travel experiences, the focus is not only on visiting beautiful places but also on leaving a minimal footprint on the planet.

Growing Support for Sustainable Travel Practices

The shift towards green travel has become more pronounced among New Zealand travellers, with 91% expressing support for locally owned accommodations. This percentage is notably higher compared to Europe (69%) and countries like Canada and Australia (84%). This shows that New Zealand is leading the way in supporting local communities through travel choices. With such a strong inclination towards eco-friendly practices, travellers are not just seeking adventure but also want to make a positive impact on the places they visit.

The rise of sustainable travel is reshaping the tourism industry in New Zealand, and it reflects an overall shift in global travel preferences. The growing commitment to ethical tourism is making a difference in how New Zealanders plan their trips. They are opting for lower-carbon travel alternatives and increasingly choosing accommodation and experiences that prioritize sustainability.

The Impact of Eco-Conscious Decisions on Tourism

As New Zealand continues to rise as a leader in ethical tourism, the country’s travellers are becoming more discerning. They are actively seeking ways to reduce their environmental impact, such as using public transportation, staying at eco-friendly accommodations, and exploring nearby destinations to limit travel-related emissions. This change is pushing businesses in the tourism industry to adapt by offering more sustainable options, such as carbon offset programs and eco-friendly accommodations.

The tourism sector is embracing this shift, with new opportunities opening up for providers who can meet the growing demand for green travel. Businesses in New Zealand’s tourism market are now offering services that cater to the eco-conscious traveller, ensuring they can enjoy their vacations while also contributing to the protection of the environment.

Trends in 2025 Travel Planning

According to the research, New Zealanders are planning to travel more in 2025, with 45% of respondents indicating that they will take multiple trips between June and September. This surge in travel is expected to fuel the tourism sector, which is already benefitting from an increasing number of eco-conscious tourists. The 2025 survey reveals a robust outlook for the travel industry, as New Zealanders continue to prioritize both adventure and sustainability. The rising demand for ethical tourism practices is likely to encourage a greater variety of environmentally friendly experiences, from nature-focused tours to sustainable accommodation options.

This commitment to eco-friendly travel is an opportunity for New Zealand’s tourism industry to cater to the growing market of sustainable travellers. The demand for green options presents an exciting chance to enhance the travel experience while promoting eco-tourism values across the region.

How Businesses Can Adapt to Meet the Demand

As the trend toward sustainable travel grows, New Zealand’s tourism industry must adapt to meet the expectations of today’s travellers. Businesses that offer eco-friendly services and products will have a significant advantage as more people seek out sustainable travel experiences. Whether it’s offering electric vehicle rentals, promoting eco-lodging, or organizing local tours that support conservation efforts, the opportunities for businesses to align with these values are clear.

New Zealand businesses can harness this growing demand for ethical tourism by offering services that reduce carbon footprints, support local economies, and prioritize sustainability. As more travellers seek eco-conscious options, those that embrace these trends will lead the way in shaping the future of the industry.

Looking Ahead

New Zealand is leading the way in green travel in 2025, with a growing number of travellers making ethical decisions to minimize their impact on the environment. By supporting local communities, choosing lower-carbon travel options, and staying in sustainable accommodations, New Zealand’s travellers are setting the standard for eco-conscious tourism according to Europ Assistance Holiday . This trend is not only shaping the future of travel but also encouraging businesses to adopt sustainable practices that meet the needs of the modern traveller. As the demand for eco-friendly tourism continues to rise, New Zealand’s tourism industry stands poised for growth with a clear focus on sustainability.