Kaipupu Sanctuary
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Port
Picton, New Zealand
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$139.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Take a short shuttle ride to a comfortable launch and cruise 15 minutes to Kaipupu Sanctuary. During the boat cruise, keep an eye out for shorebirds all around the rocky coastline, now home to cormorants (pied, spotted shag and little shags), little blue penguins, black-backed gulls, red-billed gulls, welcome swallows and South Island pied oystercatchers.
Located on a peninsula, the sanctuary is protected by predator-proof fence and the birdlife here is now flourishing. An army of local volunteers and generous donations helped to create this safe haven for native wildlife.
Upon arrival at the jetty, set off on a guided loop-track walk of two miles, passing traps and tunnels alongside designed to eliminate any predators that might have so far escaped capture. You may hear and see native birds -- fantails, kereru, weka, silvereyes, grey warbler, tui, bellbirds and kingfishers.
As you continue on the undulating path, you will pass through a mature stand of beech forest en route to a stunning vantage point.
View Picton township and the harbor in the distance and your ship docked at the pier.
Return to the jetty, re-board the launch and enjoy the short ride as you head back to the marina at Picton.
Notes:
Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. The bush track can be muddy and slippery when wet. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Tour involves a shuttle transfer to/from Picton Town Centre. Minimum age is 10 years.