Cooks Beach Coromandel - Eco Friendly Bed and Breakfast - Caring for our Community and our Environment - Ferry Landing Lodge B&B

'Earth race' was built to prove that environmentally friendly high power boats, using bio diesel fuel, could successfully challenge the world record for circumnavigating the globe. 'Earth race' successfully shattered the world record with a time of just over 60 days, creating a net-zero carbon footprint.
Now that's Eco-friendly tourism!

The weekend of 14-16 March 2009 was important for Whitianga locals, as we were given a unique opportunity to see what's possible when people work together for a common cause. Rob and I went on board the trimaran and were amazed to see how small it was inside. We are humbled by all those individuals who contributed to the success of this amazing project. And now, after talking with these dedicated environmentalists, we are determined to 'do our bit' for this planet we call home!

Whitianga has a small permanent population and like many small communities, committee members and volunteers play an important part in community life. Since moving here in 2002 we have supported our local community in many ways;

• Rob has built wooden steps leading to the foreshore making access easier.
• He has also built a wooden bench seat for tourists to enjoy the views in front of the lodge.
• We are part of an accommodation roster system, set up to assist visitors to the area and find accommodation in busy times.
• Rob helps maintain reserve land around the lodge, clearing away noxious plants like Asparagus Weed and Privet which strangle native bush.
• After bad weather Rob checks the holiday homes of close neighbors, clears all fallen branches and storm water drains.
• Possum traps are set regularly around our property and the reserve, as these Aussie imports create a lot of damage to our fauna and flora.
• Rob was Secretary of the local resident and ratepayers association for 2 years and remains an active member.
• Of the submissions he worked on, one was instrumental in getting Purangi Road upgraded and new footpaths installed.
• Rob is currently a member of the Emergency Planning Committee.
• He is able to use knowledge gained from previous work with Caltex Environmental, Health and Safety in all aspects of community involvement.
• We support the local West Pac Rescue Helicopter through annual membership.
• We donated many pre-loved goods during the last 7 years of major renovations to local schools, churches and the Fire Service.
• National Geographic, books and magazines have been delivered to local schools, Doctors rooms etc.
• We support the local Museum through annual membership and encourage guests to visit. All historic photographs displayed in the guest rooms and main house have been purchased here.
  

This is asparagus weed, which grows very quickly suffocating native bush. A watchful eye and strict control is necessary to keep it under control.

The possum might be an endangered species in Australia but here in NZ they are a serious pest. They are responsible for killing 'kiwi' and other native birds and they steal our fruit!!