Bella Vista's Blog

"Soap suds make cash for trees" called out the Taupo Times headline on page 12 of the September 2 edition.

Murray and Laurelle Hodge from Bella Vista motel Taupo got some great press coverage last week when they found themselves enlightening the Taupo readership about a new and unique scheme they have introduced at their Taupo motel accommodation. 

"We weren't seeking the attention we received" explained Laurelle, "but it is good to get the green message out all the same." "Why not show everyone that we're doing our bit for the environment and hopefully inspire them to think of ways they can contribute." she said.
 

Taupo Bella Vista's Green Initiative - How it Works.

The scheme is quite simple really and generates fundraising for a great local cause. Laurelle and Murray had noticed that guests were washing very few items using a significant amount of electricity, water and washing powder. To combat this inefficient use, the cost of a machine wash was upped from $1 to $3 per load. Still costing less than an average wash at a commercial retail laundry outlet, a charge of $3 got guest's to think twice about running small loads.

More importantly, rather than pocketing the increased revenue, Bella Vista Taupo will now be donating all the money they collect from laundry washes to Greening Taupo. Described as an 'organisation that provides an opportunity for Taupo residents and businesses to participate in a community conservation initiative' it seemed a perfect match. Keeping the donations local ensured a direct kick-back to the Taupo environment.  After all, it is Taupo and its pristine environment that brings the motels guest's to their doorstep.

Laurelle and Murray hope that more Taupo motels do the same. "If we could get even half a dozen more onboard with what we're doing that would be hugely positive"  To read the full article, see an image of the newspaper below.
 

This article first appeared in the Taupo Times on Friday, 2nd September 2016 and was written by Robert Steven.