Kapiti Island

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New Zealand

The ferry returning from Kapiti Island, in the distance, New Zealand, Nov. 2000
Photo by HelenB

Overview

Kapiti Island is located about 5 km off the west coast of southern North Island, New Zealand. It is one of New Zealand’s island nature reserves and very important for the protection and recovery of New Zealand's native bird species. To protect the island habitat and its endangered species, only 50 visitors a day are allowed.

Birds

Notable Species

Little Spotted Kiwi, Brown Kiwi, Takahe, Weka, Black-billed Gull, New Zealand Kaka, Stitchbird, Kokako, Brown Teal, Saddleback, Red Crowned Parakeet (Kakariki), Tui

The flightless Weka on Kapiti Island, Nov. 2000
Photo by HelenB

Rarities

"to do"

Check-list

Birds you can see here include:

"to do"

Other Wildlife

All introduced mammalian predators have been eliminated from the island to give the native birds the protection they need to breed and recover their numbers. New Zealand's birds evolved in the absence of mammals which makes them particularly vulnerable to the feral cats, stoats, weasels, rats and mice which man brought to New Zealand.

Site Information

History and Use

Kapiti Island covers an area of 1,965 hectares, is 10 km (6.2 miles) long and about 2 km (1.25 miles) wide. Tuteremoana, the highest point, is 521 metres (1709 feet)above sea-level. The Department of Conservation took over the stewardship of the island in 1987.

Kapiti Island from the mainland of North Island, New Zealand
Photo by HelenB

Areas of Interest

• Rangatira, about halfway along the eastern shore.
• Kapiti Nature Lodge, at the north end of the island, where overnight visits can be booked.

Access and Facilities

Only 50 people per day, may visit Rangatira. The limit is 18 per day for the north end of the island.
You must apply in advance for a permit to visit both parts of Kapiti Island.
Permit fees:

• Adult: NZ$11.00
• Youth/Child (5-17 years): NZ$5.00
• Infant (0-4 years): free

You may apply for the permit online at: DoC online booking form.
Full payment must be made at the time of booking. Cancellation fees may apply. For more details and information on the 2 licensed boat operators, see Permits and Transport

Contact Details

Contact the Department of Conservation:

• Phone: (04) 472-7356
• Email: [email protected]

External Links

• Kapiti Island on Dept. of Conservation website
• Map of Kapiti Island
• Visits to the Nature Lodge at the north end of Kapiti Island

Content and images originally posted by HelenB