Poronui obtains Qualmark GOLD award

Poronui obtains Qualmark GOLD award under the Sustainable Tourism Business criteria and 5 Star Lodge rating

We are very pleased and proud to announce that Poronui Lodge has been awarded Qualmark GOLD Sustainable Tourism Business Award and 5 Star Lodge rating. To achieve this, we had to score extremely highly in all five pillars of:

• Health & Safety
• Business Systems
• Environment
• People
• Community & Culture

This is an amazing achievement, and it is a credit to everyone in the Poronui and Westervelt team (NZ and the US) and to all of our guests who have all played a part in building Poronui and Westervelt to what it is today.

A huge amount of effort, teamwork and dedication to our common kaupapa (purpose) have gone in over many years, building Poronui into a place where guests and staff feel at home. A place to return to year after year to enjoy the company of familiar faces, share stories, relax, take adventures and become “part of something bigger”.

About the Qualmark evaluation criteria

A Gold Qualmark Award is the pinnacle of quality assurance for businesses in New Zealand’s tourism industry. Awarded by Qualmark, New Zealand’s official tourism quality assurance organization, this prestigious accolade recognizes businesses that consistently deliver exceptional service, embody sustainability practices, and provide unforgettable visitor experiences.

To achieve Gold status, a business must excel in three key areas:

• Sustainability Leadership: Demonstrating outstanding environmental practices, reducing carbon footprints, and contributing positively to the local community and economy. Gold-rated businesses align with New Zealand’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
• Customer Experience: Providing a world-class experience through exceptional service, attention to detail, and a genuine connection to New Zealand’s unique culture and heritage.
• Operational Excellence: Maintaining the highest standards in safety, business operations, and quality assurance, ensuring reliability and professionalism at every touchpoint.

A Gold Qualmark Award signals that a business is among the best in New Zealand, offering visitors an unforgettable, responsible, and top-tier experience. As a team, we are delighted to uphold this standard of excellence and look forward to continuing to deliver unparalleled hospitality to every guest who walks through our doors.