B and G in New Zealand: Kapiti Island 2013

Our long awaited trip to Kapiti Island began with a 3-mile water taxi ride to the Island. Kapiti is an internationally renowned sanctuary for New Zealand birds and native forest, as well as a marine preserve. For over 100 years, this 5,000 acre Island has been managed by the New Zealand government in order to protect its native flora and fauna. All of the introduced mammals that prey on the birds and plants have been removed, allowing a safe environment for many for New Zealand’s most endangered bird species. Ten overnight visitors are allowed to stay on the island by the Department of Conservation.

Water Taxi for Kapiti Island on Paraparaumu Beach

Our cottage and the lodge were very comfortable. The only electricity on the island was by generator. They used gas for cooking and for refrigerators. The Maori family who own and run the lodge were extremely welcoming. Our meals were cooked for us and the various wines and cheese served during happy hour in the evening were wonderful.

Dinner in front of the HD TV window

Mainland from Kapiti

On the first day, we walked the north end of the island. We heard many birds and had the best view of takahe, weka, kaka (parrot), red crowned parakeet, whitehead, black winged gulls, black swans, New Zealand scaup, and paradise shell duck. After dinner we visited with a family from Tasmania as well as the family that runs the lodge. We even had an ukulele serenade by our guide for the night walk. At 10 PM, we all went on out to look for kiwi and morepork (New Zealand’s native owl). We felt fortunate with our sightings.

View from Okepu Loop Walk

Takahe - endangered and flightless

Takahe Chick

Kaka interested in our lunch bag

Morepork

On the second morning, we took a water taxi and walked the central part of the Island. The 3 1/2 hour return hike up to the top of the island was well worth the climb as we we saw bellbirds, tuis, New Zealand robins, stitchbirds, and the beloved saddleback.