Tiaki – Care for New Zealand was created through a collective desire to share a connection to the natural world, inspiring and helping visitors to travel safely and conscientiously.
In Aotearoa New Zealand, people have a strong connection to the place around them. Tangata whenua (people of this land) see nature as something intrinsically intertwined with their own lives. For Māori, every mountain, every river, every tree has a story. These stories form part of their own identities and help to shape their place in the world.
Tiaki invites us all to look at the world through this indigenous lens. To form a deeper connection with place, and to reflect this in our attitudes and behaviours.
To commit to travelling in this way is to take the Tiaki Promise.
TE INGOA THE NAME
Tiaki is a Māori word that loosely means to care, conserve, and protect. It is a significant part of Māori culture and can be found in important cultural concepts such as kaitiakitanga.
TE TOHU THE SYMBOL
The Tiaki tohu (symbol) represents four atua (Māori spiritual beings) who in turn represent four key elements that make this place so special. Its presence is a reminder for us all to travel in accordance with the principles of Tiaki and is often accompanied by information to help us do so.
TIAKI MEANS TO CARE FOR PEOPLE, PLACE AND CULTURE
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.
By following the Tiaki Promise, you are making a commitment to New Zealand. To act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our home.
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