Heritage Expeditions has earned praise for its leadership in responsible expedition tourism, particularly in New Zealand. This recognition comes as the company celebrates its 40th anniversary and over 50 years of dedication to conservation.
During a special event aboard the Heritage Adventurer, the flagship of Heritage Expeditions, Minister for the South Island James Meager commended the Christchurch-based, family-owned company for its contributions to conservation, tourism, and positioning New Zealand as a key gateway to the Subantarctic Islands and Antarctica’s Ross Sea.
Meager highlighted the positive impact of the company’s voyages, which attract high-value international travelers. He noted that this is a significant achievement for New Zealand, particularly as the government focuses on growth. He also emphasized the importance of promoting that growth in a way that protects the environment and supports conservation efforts.
“As a Government, we want to help promote that growth while safeguarding our environment,” Meager stated.
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka also praised Heritage Expeditions for setting the standard in responsible expedition tourism. He noted that 35 years ago, the company became the first concessionaire for the Subantarctic Islands, ensuring that conservation was always a priority in their expeditions.
“When managed correctly, tourism in the Subantarctic is a valuable way to showcase the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage,” Potaka explained. “It supports economic sustainability and enhances conservation efforts, while also benefiting local jobs and incomes.”
Potaka reaffirmed his commitment to working with partners like Heritage Expeditions, the Department of Conservation, and iwi (Māori tribes), to protect these fragile and remote regions for future generations.
The event also highlighted a world-first research partnership between Heritage Expeditions and Ngāi Tahu, a major iwi based in the South Island. Ta Tipene O’Regan, Upoko Te Rūnaka o Awarua, spoke about the strong relationship between Heritage Expeditions and Ngāi Tahu, especially through the Murihiku ki te Tonga Programme. O’Regan commended the Russ family for their ongoing commitment to preserving New Zealand’s unique natural heritage.
“I am a big fan of the work done by Heritage Expeditions and the values they hold,” O’Regan said. “Their careful approach to protecting these remarkable places aligns with our own values and respect for our heritage. We owe them a great deal for their efforts to preserve what they bring people to see.”
Aaron Russ, the commercial director and expedition leader at Heritage Expeditions, expressed gratitude for the support the company has received as it enters its next 40 years. Russ emphasized that the celebration was not only a reflection of the company’s legacy but also a commitment to continuing their conservation efforts.
“We look forward to working together with all our partners to protect and preserve the extraordinary environments of New Zealand,” Russ said.
This recognition underscores Heritage Expeditions’ significant role in promoting responsible tourism while ensuring the protection of New Zealand’s unique and fragile ecosystems.
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