Glenorchy eco-lodge founders recognised for leadership in sustainability

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch
Dec 03, 2024 |
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The founders of The Headwaters Eco Lodge in Glenorchy, Debbi and Paul Brainerd, have received commendation for their dedication to sustainable business practices at the Sustainable Business Awards.

The couple was recognised in the Transformational Leadership category, among a select group of the country’s most innovative leaders.

Debbi and Paul, who first fell in love with Glenorchy more than 20 years ago, purchased a rundown campground and general store, aiming to rejuvenate it. They then embarked on creating The Headwaters Eco Lodge, a facility designed to meet the world’s most rigorous green building standards, the Living Building Challenge (LBC).

Since its opening in 2018, the eco-lodge has become a benchmark in sustainability, generating more energy than it consumes and using 50% less water than similar accommodations. It is the first facility in New Zealand to achieve LBC certification.

Paul and Debbi Brainerd of The Headwaters Eco Lodge in Glenorchy

Paul and Debbi Brainerd of The Headwaters Eco Lodge in Glenorchy

The Sustainable Business Network commended the Brainerds for their transformative leadership. CEO Rachel Brown said the awards celebrated trailblazers whose innovative models and technologies are paving the way for a sustainable future.

Debbi described the lodge as a “labour of love” for herself and Paul, expressing pride in providing local jobs in a stunning location. “Some of our employees were commuting two hours a day for jobs in Queenstown,” she said, highlighting the impact the lodge has had on the local community.

The Transformational Leadership award was ultimately won by Mike Casey of Rewiring Aotearoa, a sustainable farming initiative. Debbi congratulated Casey and his wife Rebecca, calling them “extraordinary people” who are proving that sustainable farming is both achievable and profitable. “They are in this for all the right reasons,” she said.

The Headwaters Eco Lodge’s commitment to sustainability was also acknowledged last month as a finalist in the KiwiRail Tourism Environment Award at the New Zealand Tourism Awards.

Debbi said their work aims to inspire others to create sustainable businesses that benefit both local communities and the wider world. “Our hope is that others see their creativity can mature into something that makes a real difference.”

Chris Lynch
Chris Lynch

Chris Lynch is a journalist, videographer and content producer, broadcasting from his independent news and production company in Christchurch, New Zealand. If you have a news tip or are interested in video content, email [email protected]

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