A ten-day Buddhist conference beginning this week (Thursday March 13) at the Wānaka Recreation Centre offers a model for sustainable travel, the Love Wānaka project says.

Organised by Siddhartha’s Intent, the gathering is committed to minimising its environmental impact and supporting local conservation efforts through contributions to the Love Wānaka Community Fund. Love Wānaka connects visitors and the tourism industry with local projects, raising funds and awareness for grassroots environmental initiatives. 

This initiative follows the success of the inaugural Siddhartha’s Intent 2023 conference in Wānaka.

"It's incredible to see such commitment to care, with Siddhartha's Intent going above and beyond to give back to the community,” Love Wānaka Community Fund coordinator Ash Bickley said.

“Across the 2023 and 2025 events, attendees have collectively donated over $13,000 to support local environmental efforts. Siddhartha's Intent are also making significant strides to reduce their footprint wherever possible.”

All funds raised from the 2025 event will support Te Kākano Aotearoa, furthering native restoration projects in the region. Attendees, including more than 30 children participating in the Siddhartha’s Intent Kids’ Camp, will have opportunities to get involved through hands-on volunteer initiatives throughout the week.

"This is what the future of travel can look like, with visitors actively contributing to environmental protection and regeneration. We’re proud to play a part in that," Ash said.

With support from Wastebusters and Plastic Free Wānaka, the event has also committed to being zero waste. Coffee carts run by Mackenzie Coffee will eliminate disposable cups by implementing a mug library system thanks to Wānaka's SUCFree (single use cup free) initiative.

The event has also partnered with Sustainable Queenstown’s DISHrupt initiative, providing reusable plates and cutlery for onsite catering. DISHrupt will manage daily washing and sterilisation, reducing waste and promoting reusable dishware solutions.

“By eliminating single-use cups alone, we’re preventing thousands from ending up in landfill,” Siddhartha’s Intent New Zealand director Kim Saxon said.

"We are dedicated to ensuring our presence in this pristine environment leaves only positive impacts."

During the event, Bhutanese Buddhist Master Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche will provide teachings and meditation instructions based on the Longchen Nyingtik Tsapöse.

Rinpoche said he chose to host this in New Zealand “because it is such a pristine, beautiful, and friendly place”.

Siddhartha’s Intent New Zealand has invited locals to a Traditional Himalayan Incense Ceremony. The free event is open to all, with RSVPs encouraged. 

PHOTO: Supplied