BeforeThe area was a little overgrain with non-native species.
Sustainability at Two Rivers
Two Rivers takes its name from the Mangawhero and Mangateitei Rivers that meet our boundaries. These rivers help create the peace and beauty that make this place so special, and they are part of the reason we feel a responsibility to care for this small corner of Ruapehu.
We believe luxury and environmental responsibility can comfortably coexist. Our aim is simple: to offer exceptional comfort while continually reducing our environmental impact and enhancing the natural environment around us.
Since purchasing Two Rivers in July 2024, we have invested in riverbank restoration, renewable energy, waste reduction and sustainable operating practices, while maintaining the quality, privacy and comfort our guests expect.
We invite you to explore eco-luxury near Tongariro
This video gives a taste of the multi-year project to replant the terraces on our river banks. Gone are the invasive species, and native planting is now re-establishing.
Restoring The Rivers
The Mangawhero and Mangateitei Rivers are central to the character of Two Rivers. Since 2024, we have been undertaking a long-term riverbank restoration programme involving invasive species control, native revegetation and habitat enhancement. Non-native grasses, blackberry, bindweed and other species have been controlled to open up the view of the rivers and to allow native plants to be introduced.
Progress to date:
Approximately 50 metres of riverbank restored
>100 native plants established
Ongoing invasive species management
Long-term habitat improvement programme
Whio (blue duck), a nationally threatened native species, has occasionally been seen in the rivers beside Two Rivers.
Solar-Powered Accommodation
In April 2026, we completed the first phase of our largest sustainability investment to date.
Our system includes:
33 solar panels
Approximately 17 kW solar generation capacity
27 kWh battery storage
6 kW EV charging station
The system was estimated to provide approximately 79% of annual electricity requirements across the guest accommodation and owners' residence combined.
Results
Estimated annual grid electricity reduction: 79%
Estimated annual solar generation: 17,412 kWh
EV charging available for guests
Installer-estimated environmental impact:
2 tons of CO2 reduced per year
Project lifetime - equivalent to planting 383 trees
Reducing Waste
We continually look for practical ways to minimise waste and reduce our environmental footprint.
Our initiatives include:
Recycling facilities introduced in every guest suite
Composting of suitable food and organic waste
Compostable rubbish bags used wherever possible
Reduction of single-use plastics wherever practical
Green waste processing through local facilities
Results
Redundant items passed into the community through charitable donations
Organic waste composted
Single-use plastics substantially reduced
Supporting Local
Whenever practical, we purchase supplies and ingredients locally and work with Ohakune-based businesses. This supports our local economy and, where possible, helps us avoid unnecessary transport.
We also prioritise local contractors and suppliers wherever possible.
Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business
We believe sustainability claims should be independently verified. Shortly after purchasing Two Rivers in 2024, we choose to join Qualmark - "New Zealand tourism's official mark of quality"
Following assessment in 2025, Two Rivers achieved Qualmark Silver, the second highest level of Qualmark's Sustainable Tourism Business criteria. Our first review in 2026 led to the highest Qualmark Gold award. This recognition reflects our commitment to continually improving environmental, social and business sustainability practices.
Sustainability You Can Experience
For us, sustainability isn't something hidden behind a policy document.
It's visible in the restored riverbanks, the native planting, the solar-powered energy system and the day-to-day decisions that shape how Two Rivers operates.
Most importantly, it exists alongside the comfort and privacy our guests come here to enjoy.
Relax in your private hot tub. Wake to the sound of the rivers. Explore Tongariro and Ruapehu.
Behind the scenes, we're continually working to ensure Two Rivers remains a place where luxury sits comfortably within its surroundings.
Our private suites provide a peaceful riverside base, with Ohakune village just a short walk away and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing easily accessible by local shuttle.
Luxury, we think, feels even better when it belongs in its surroundings.