Bird sanctuary of the island of Kapiti


If you are going on a trip to the other end of the world to get to know the wonderful world of nature, New Zealand is an ideal place for this. Local representatives of flora and fauna are truly unique, and the feathered inhabitants of the islands are especially proud of the local inhabitants. Therefore, try to visit the bird sanctuary of the island of Kapiti, which is located not far from the capital of the country - Wellington . Even after a few years, you are sure to remember this trip with ecstasy.

What is worth knowing about Capitals?

The island of Kapiti has long been considered a bird sanctuary, so you can not go there alone without the permission of the Department of Conservation. But you will quickly forget about the tedious procedure of obtaining permission, as soon as you see the virgin nature of this place and the local representatives of the feathered family, who are not afraid of man at all. Excursions are only for small groups of tourists, but then you can some time yourself wander around the island.

There are a lot of birds that are typical for New Zealand , including those that are on the verge of extinction. From 1890 to 1910, several specimens of small and northern kiwi were brought here, which, in the absence of human influence, managed to survive on the island and give offspring. Thus, these species were saved from extinction. Also on the island are nest such exotic representatives of the bird kingdom as:

Since in the summer the New Zealanders expect an influx of tourists, it is worthwhile to book a tour of the reserve in advance. Walk around the entire island on foot will take you about 3 hours, during which you can admire the beautiful birds and listen to their singing.

Excursion routes

At the moment, Kapiti is divided into 2 tourist areas: Rangatira, which is halfway to the eastern shore, and the northern part of the island.

If you are attracted by a tour of Rangatir, you can do the following:

  1. Take a walk through a specially planted forest or stunted bushes on the coast, enjoying pleasant birds' voices.
  2. Inspect interesting historical artifacts: a building erected as far back as the 19th century, which was used as a bird watching point, and special pots in which sifted whale fat (formerly the island was a gathering place for whalers).
  3. Climb to Tuthermana - the highest peak of the island, near which is a small shop. Here you can buy food and have a picnic on a specially designated area. To get to it, you have to overcome only a third of the way.

Travel to the northern part of the island involves a pedestrian crossing the plain, through the forest, shrubby shoots and along the coast. You will be enchanted by the amazing views of the Okupe Lagoon with clear water. Walking along the coast is prohibited from October to March, so as not to interfere with the nesting of seabirds.

Staying on the island is not possible, but you can stay for a few days in a private hotel located near the Bay of Vairoua.

Rules of conduct in the reserve

When you landed on the island of Kapiti (you can not do this without prior permission), you will have to follow the rules set here:

  1. Lay out insecticides, repellents and other household chemicals from your backpack.
  2. In order not to disturb the ecosystem of the island, carefully check when boarding a ship that will take you to the island, whether your things or the sole of seeds, ants, soil particles, leaves, etc.,
  3. It is forbidden to bring private boats, surfboards, kayaks and other equipment for outdoor activities.
  4. It is impossible to get to the island if you are with a dog.
  5. Take with you food, drinking water, warm windproof clothing and strong shoes.
  6. You can get to the island only on specialized boats of the company, which is transporting to Kapiti. On the day of the excursion do not forget to call the office between 7.00 and 7.30 and confirm that you are going to the island.