Famous for its one-of-a-kind Reef Ecology Tour, Dive Tatapouri has earned the prestigious Qualmark Gold accreditation, a recognition reserved for top-performing New Zealand businesses that deliver exceptional visitor experiences while meeting the highest sustainability standards.
As a Gold-accredited business, Dive Tatapouri will receive expert business support, greater visibility through Tourism New Zealand channels, and access to tools that foster sustainable and competitive growth in domestic and international markets.
Awarded only to leading tourism businesses, the gold accreditation signals that Dive Tatapouri demonstrates excellence across five focus areas, which include health and safety, community and culture, business systems, environment and people.
For co-owner Chris Savage, the achievement has been a long-time coming.
“We did it, but it’s a lot for a small business. It’s not just the paperwork and commitment but the cost. Every process we use has been built from scratch to fit how we operate, making it even more meaningful,” says Chris.
The Reef Ecology Tour invites manuhiri (visitors) to walk into the shallows of Tatapouri Bay and interact with wild stingrays and other marine life. Guided by experienced local kaimahi (staff), the tours combine ecological kōrero, safety education and a connection with the moana in a way that is uniquely Tairāwhiti.
Chris and her team have developed their own robust safety systems, in partnership with WorkSafe to ensure the tour remains safe and unforgettable.
Stepping up to Qualmark Gold status marks a new level of recognition for the team, particularly for attracting international markets.
“Tourism New Zealand places a lot of weight on Qualmark. Having Gold helps us stand out and gives people confidence in the quality and integrity of what we do.”
The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Chris says the last five years, marked by global pandemics, local weather events and increasing compliance costs have been the hardest yet.
“Honestly, we probably wouldn’t start something like this today; the red tape would be too much. But we’ve kept going and stayed true to our values,” Chris says.
Those values are reflected in the Dive Tatapouri team. Although staff might only be on-site for a few hours each day, creating a supportive, safe and enjoyable workplace remains a priority.
“We’ve built an environment where people enjoy coming to work. We want them to feel supported, valued and part of something special. That’s a huge part of why we’ve lasted 25 years.”
That same care extends to the reef itself. Dive Tatapouri has spent years restoring local habitats, running predator control and offering discounted tours to local schools, all part of their kaitiaki approach to the whenua and moana.
“It’s not just a tourism business; this is about looking after our people and place.”
The Qualmark Gold accreditation recognises the team’s long-standing mahi and is a stepping stone for the future.
“We’re proud of where we are and excited for what’s ahead.”
To learn more about Dive Tatapouri or book a Reef Ecology tour, visit www.divetatapouri.com.