What are the benefits to my business?

Your business will be among a niche group of operators who demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the sustainability of our tourism industry and environment.

​

Use of the logo; be featured by Cook Islands Tourism and enjoy marketing opportunities exclusive to Mana Tiaki Eco Certified businesses. 

​

Ongoing training opportunities can be provided to you to better 'green' your business.

How many points do I need?

You will need to gain a minimum of 100 points (including bonus points) from a possible 185 to obtain Mana Tiaki Eco Certification.

What if I dont get enough points?

We encourage transparency so please highlight this next to the section and we give a 3 month grace period in which to meet that criteria. 

You will need to have met the minimum points at the time of your official inspection.

How much is it?

NZD per annum:

Tourism Accomodation (e.g. Hotels, Self Catering and Holiday Homes): $130 + $6 per unit

Food and Beverage Businesses: $130 each

Other Sectors: $130 each

​

A separate application must be made for each trading entity.

​

Where does my fee go?

Fees received go back into the scheme to run the Mana Tiaki Eco Certification programme. 

This includes payment of administration, assessors and to help develop and provide additional training for certified businesses.  Any additional funds will be used by in local environmental projects implemented by Te Ipukarea Society and other organisations.

When does it start?

The Mana Tiaki Eco Certification begins each calendar year on January 1. You will need to provide your self-assessment each year to stay certified.

Is it compulsory to join?

It is not compulsory to join this certification scheme. The purpose is to celebrate and support those businesses going above and beyond minimum enviromental standards.

Do I need to be accredited first?

Yes. You must be a fully paid and accredited business to apply for Mana Tiaki Eco Certification. This is because minimum standards included in the existing accreditation process have not been included in Mana Tiaki Eco Certification standards.

What if I belong to another organisation or scheme eg. Green Globe, SPTO etc?

We encourage you to join these also. This Certification has been developed to be Cook Islands specific and suit the unique challenges and oppertunities our local industry faces.

Who receives the fees, forms etc of this and how do I know this information wont be shared?

Te Ipukarea Society and the Tourism Industry Council and its nominated administration representative handles the administration side of the programme. All information is held in the strictest confidence.

Can my certification be revoked?

In cases on dishonesty, or losing accreditation, your certification may be revoked. This is dealt with on a case by case basis by the president of the Te Ipukarea Society and Tourism industry Council

and her/his nominated representatives.

Who assesses my business?

As with the accreditation process, international assessors have been identified to ensure transparency and eliminate bias. They will conduct such assessments annually.

Who do I complain to if I think the requirements on my business are unfair?

In the initial instance, please email your complaint directly to our administration assistant. This will be passed on to the committee for consideration and response

Who sets the criteria?

A full and thorough research, development and consultation phase has been developed in line with international standards and incorporating our own unique challenges and opportunities here in the Cook Islands. Each year, our industry will be invited to provide feedback on standards.

There are a number of international certification already, why make a new one?

Research has shown that existing international frameworks, while successful have not been accessible to our local businesses due to cost, geographical restrictions and criteria that may lack relevance in our South Pacific

How do I know where to go/what to do to gain points in each section?

We have included practical examples throughout this document as well as local providers of goods and services that may assist you to obtain points in each section. If you have suggestions to add, please let us know.