The Kapiti Island nature reserve

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.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

Here’s one of the locals unloading those all important supplies.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

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.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

Think I’ll take a moment or two to absorb this scene.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

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.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

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.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

I was amazed at how fat and prosperous these Kereru were and so completely unafraid of us.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

Part of the loop walk included climbing to the cliff face and although the sun stayed hidden, the moody coastline was stunning.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

On the way back we paid our respects to the hardworking DOC workers. Cheerful bunch.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

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:

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

After lunch we took a wander down the beach so Michael could catch a few Zen moments.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

And here’s mine:

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

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.

The Kapiti Island nature reserve

Happy Travelling.

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