Kinloch Wilderness Retreat: A sanctuary for locals after 24 years of sustainable growth
At Kinloch Wilderness Retreat, sustainability is woven into everything we do, guided by our core values: Intelligence, Thoughtfulness, Environment, Community, and Fun. These values have shaped our decisions over the past 24 years, driving us to continually improve and grow Kinloch with a focus on sustainable development.
We’re inviting locals to experience this unique blend of sustainability and comfort. Located just an hour from Queenstown, Kinloch offers the perfect escape where you can disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature.
A journey of sustainable innovation
Our sustainability journey took a major leap in 2016 with the purchase of our first petrol hybrid vehicle. This set the stage for bigger changes, including the 2017 construction of our passive-style EcoScapes using SIP (Structural Insulated Panels). These off-grid rooms combine energy efficiency with modern design, offering stunning views while being powered by solar energy.
Since then, we’ve electrified almost everything on the property - from garden tools and lawn mowers to the addition of three more electric vehicles. Solar panels and power walls now adorn all our buildings, ensuring we generate and store renewable energy.
Our sustainability efforts have earned us a Gold Sustainability rating from Qualmark, and we are on the path to B Corp certification, reflecting our commitment to balancing purpose with profit.
The best of heritage and modern design
In addition to our EcoScapes, we’ve redeveloped the old Heritage Lodge to meet 70% NBS (New Building Standard), preserving and enhancing its Heritage-listed character. The Heritage Lodge has become a wonderful homestead for groups and families to enjoy, blending its timeless charm with modern comfort. Now, guests can choose between the state-of-the-art EcoScapes for a cosy couple’s retreat or the warmth of the Heritage Lodge for larger groups - a perfect mix of old and new and of course our Wilderness accommodation for hikers and travellers.
Sustainability for resilience
At Kinloch, we believe that sustainability must go hand-in-hand with business viability. We’ve worked hard to ensure our business is robust, demonstrating to guests what a family can achieve through love, care, and community-centric activities. Our water treatment and wastewater systems ensure we are self-sufficient, while native plantings and growing food for the restaurant help support the local ecosystem.
We’ve partnered with local suppliers and focused on reducing food miles, ensuring that what we serve is fresh and has a positive environmental impact.
A call to our locals: The Kin Club
To keep our favourite locals coming back, we’ve created the Kin Club. By joining the Kin Club through our QR code, you’ll have access to exclusive offers, invites to special events, and discounted stays—perfect for a quick, peaceful getaway. Whether it’s a weekend break, a day of hiking or biking, or simply unwinding in nature, Kinloch offers the ultimate local escape.
Explore the region’s world-class trails, take out one of our UBCO electric bikes or Sinch E-bikes, or enjoy a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature. Every visit helps support our sustainability efforts and contributes to the thriving Glenorchy community.
Community at the heart
As a family business deeply rooted in Glenorchy, community has always been central to what we do. We aim to ensure that our footprint benefits the greater community. By supporting local suppliers, promoting carbon-neutral activities, and investing in sustainable infrastructure, we’re creating a future where the environment and community both thrive.
Join us on our sustainability journey
We’re excited to share our story through the Lakes Weekly Bulletin competition. The prize - a two-night stay in one of our EcoScapes - includes a personal tour with John or myself, where we’ll walk you through the steps we’ve taken to shape Kinloch for a sustainable future. You’ll also enjoy a meal with us in our restaurant, made with locally-sourced ingredients, and have access to our carbon-free activities like UBCO electric bikes, Sinch E-bikes, and kayaking (season permitting).
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, now is the perfect time to visit Kinloch Wilderness Retreat. Join us on our sustainability journey and experience the ultimate local escape, just an hour from Queenstown.
