Not many travellers get to experience one of New Zealand’s most precious predator-free nature reserves, yet Kapiti Island is only a 20 minute boat ride from the main land on the Kapiti Coast of the North Island. For us, having our own personal space is not an optional extra. It’s essential. Although we shared the boat with 8 other people going across, we explored the northern end of the Island with only the birdlife for company.
Here’s one of the locals unloading those all important supplies.
The owner/operators of Kapiti Island Nature Tours live on the Island and run the only commercial operation at Waiorua, at the northern end. We chose their day tour which included a one-hour guided nature walk with guide, Andi and lunch. Really impressed with Andi. She loves her job and is a great presenter. Here we are at the shelter for an orientation before commencing our 3-hour loop walk.
Think I’ll take a moment or two to absorb this scene.
After the orientation Andi walked with us for the first part and we hiked the rest of the way by ourselves. As you can see the track is well defined and maintained.
It’s hard to believe that only 50 years ago, this newer part of the island was cleared farmland. How quickly nature reasserts her dominance. Here’s a plant that even the knowledgeable Michael could not identify.
I was amazed at how fat and prosperous these Kereru were and so completely unafraid of us.
Part of the loop walk included climbing to the cliff face and although the sun stayed hidden, the moody coastline was stunning.
On the way back we paid our respects to the hardworking DOC workers. Cheerful bunch.
Back at the lodge it was a surprise to be served a very good cooked lunch (we were expecting filled buns). We sat down with other travellers that had stayed overnight. Kapiti Island Nature Tours also offer cute little rustic cabins or for a different level of comfort, a ‘Glamping’ experience:
After lunch we took a wander down the beach so Michael could catch a few Zen moments.
And here’s mine:
This nature experience forced us to slow down and beat to a different drum. The Island welcomed us, as did the locals and we’d love to visit again. Time to say goodbye to those Kereru.
Happy Travelling.
