Reducing single-use plastic isn’t just a seasonal campaign at Cardrona
It’s a long-term commitment for Cardrona Alpine Resort who, has been working to minimise waste, go plastic-free and protect the alpine environment. Now, with support from natural performance clothing brand icebreaker, that mission is clearer (and cleaner) than ever.
From food to fibres to your favourite hot drink, here are three practical ways Cardrona is cutting plastic — and how you can do the same when you visit.
#1 Plastic-free dining with “pack in, pack out”
Cardrona follows a “pack it in, pack it out” system. Visitors are encouraged to bring their lunch in reusable or recyclable containers, helping keep the mountain free from waste. To support this, all on-site cafés and restaurants use recyclable, compostable, or unpackaged materials.
#2 Choosing natural fibres over synthetics
Plastic doesn’t just come in bottles – it’s often woven into our clothes. That’s why Cardrona encourages skiers to make the switch to natural fibre base layers, with merino wool as the standout.
Merino is warm even when wet, naturally odour-resistant, and fully biodegradable – making it a smart choice for both performance and sustainability. Icebreaker leads the way here, offering 100% merino base layers, and a clothing range that’s now 97.56% plastic-free.
#3 BYO bottle and keep cup
Whether it’s water between runs or a hot chocolate on the deck, Cardrona is promoting reusables over single-use. Bringing your own drink bottle or keep cup helps eliminate waste – and your drink stays hotter for longer, too.
With thousands of daily visitors during peak season, small swaps like this can add up to a big difference.
A sustainable future on snow
Cardrona’s plastic-free push isn’t just a trend – it’s a culture shift. Backed by brands like icebreaker, the resort is setting the standard for sustainable skiing in New Zealand. And while going plastic-free might sound like a big leap, it really comes down to a few smart, easy choices.
Visitors play a big part in the mountain’s future – whether it’s packing a reusable lunchbox, investing in quality natural gear, or simply saying no to a plastic lid.
The goal? A clean, thriving alpine environment we can all enjoy, for seasons to come.
