Otaki TodayWithin the space of a week, Kapiti Island Nature Tours scooped two big awards that put it at the forefront of New Zealand’s Māori tourism business.
On October 23, the Ōtaki-based operation won the Hospitality, Entertainment and Tourism Award at the Horowhenua-Kāpiti Electra Business & Innovation Awards dinner at Southwards in Paraparaumu.
Whānau and staff of Kāpiti Island Nature Tours celebrate their winning of the Māori Tourism Award at the New Zealand Tourism Awards in Wellington on October 31. Photo supplied
The judges said the tourism business blended Māori heritage, conservation, and innovation to create unforgettable, authentic experiences.
“From global storytelling partnerships to deep local roots, they’re showing how tourism can protect and celebrate what matters most,” the commendation said. “Congratulations to Kapiti Island Nature Tours – guardians of the land, storytellers of the future.”
On October 29, Kapiti Island Nature Tours (KINT) picked up the prestigious Toroa ā-uta, Toroa ā-tai Māori Tourism Award at the New Zealand Tourism Awards in Wellington.
The judges commended how the tourism operator continued to operate at a high level, while maintaining a strong focus on community outcomes, showing positive change in the communities it engaged with.
“By stretching beyond its comfort zone and leveraging international connections, Kapiti Island Nature Tours exemplifies how Māori tourism can deliver outstanding experiences that are culturally authentic, community centred and globally influential.”
KINT is a Barrett whānau business operating on Māori-owned land on Kapiti Island for eight generations, integrating conservation and cultural immersion into their unique tourism experience.
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