What type of businesses can become Moana Mark partners?
Moana Mark partners need to be able to:
- Provide evidence of sustainable practices that contribute to the marine environment
- Demonstrate a commitment to the Tiaki Promise
- Show a willingness to educate others about why marine environmental protection is important
- Provide a donation to MoanaMark to fund marine research projects (starting at $1,000).
Specifically, tourism operators must also:
- Be a member of Tourism Industry Aotearoa
- Demonstrate adherence to the Tourism Sustainability Commitment
- Show a commitment to encouraging public participation and collaboration in scientific research to increase scientific knowledge (aka citizen science)
Is an upfront donation required to become a Moana Mark partner?
Yes, an initial contribution of $1,000 is required to become a Moana Mark partner.
What do Moana Mark partner donations go towards?
Donations are used to provide scholarships for students to study the marine ecosystem and species populations. Currently, Moana Mark research projects are focused on various marine environments and/or species to assess how threatened these are, in order to determine what we can do to improve their management and protection.
What are the benefits of being a Moana Mark partner?
- A straightforward and meaningful pathway to support local marine research initiatives
- Providing instant recognition that you are giving back to the environment
- Supporting sustainable, regenerative tourism where the industry gives back more than it takes – and, in doing so, empowers other individuals or businesses to do the same
- Providing a pathway that speaks to all four elements of the NZ Tourism Sustainability Commitment
- Providing a pathway that speaks to the Tiaki Promise
- Becoming part of a network of like-minded individuals who have similar commitments to sustainability and marine conservation
Specific business benefits include:
- Reinforcing your businesses reputation as a leading employer of choice that actively gives back to the community
- Increasing customer base in relation to eco-conscious consumers
- Providing leadership opportunities through involvement and employee interest and engagement
- Providing instant recognition that your business gives back to the marine environment
- Providing talking points for your business, helping appeal even more to customers prioritising sustainable travel choice
- Attraction of international markets who value sustainable retention of the national assets of New Zealand
What do Moana Mark partners receive for their support?
- A logo which can be used for personal benefit or to endorse your business
- A feature on the Moana Mark website outlining what your business does, how your business values sustainable practices and why Moana Mark certification was important for you
- A bi-annual report which outlines the research that your business has funded
- An annual presentation to your staff and/or stakeholders which describes the research your business has supported
- Acknowledgements in all research reports and conference proceedings
- Images and content for social media which showcase the marine conservation initiatives your business is supporting
- An auditable financial statement relating to the expenditure of funds provided by your business