[jess]

We have permits to visit Kapiti Island. I just need to book with one of the two tour operators who can take you to the island - Kapiti Tours or Kapiti Marine Charter. Both charge the same amount. Has anyone used one or the other and have an opinion about their service?


Thanks!

[sizzlingbadger]

Unfortunately cannot help you out but will look forward to hearing your report back.

It's something we would love to do with the in laws in the holidays. How easy was it to get the permits through ? Also how expensive is it, if you don't mind me asking :D

[jess]

Very easy by phone, fax, or email with credit card. Reserving early is good for summer dates - especially weekends - because only 50 people are allowed per day in the middle section (apparently they opened the north section to 15 people per day as a new thing, but I haven't looked into the details). We're going in Feb.

It cost $9 per person for adults/ $4.50 for kids for permits from DOC. Probably the cheapest thing in NZ!! ;) And it's only $45 per adult for the trip over and back with the tour operator!

Phone: +64 4 472 7356
Fax: +64 4 471-2075
Email Kapiti.Island@doc.govt.nz

[Carol]

I've been with my class from school Jess - but I cant remember which one we used.
Will see if I can find the photos and let you know.
Whichever one we used - they were awesome with the kids etc
Carol

[Carol]

hmmm
found the photos but can't finmd one of the boat - sorry.
Will post some of the pics when I have a bit more time...

[sarahw]

I went for a weekend to the Island with the one with Kapiti Island Alive - John Barrett, one of the Maori kaitiaki (caretakers) of the island. I knew of him already - he's a real marine reserve advocate - very interesting chap, very passionate about the conservation they are doing over there. The staff were really nice, the journey isn't too long so it doesn't really matter which co. you take but I'd really recommend them & want to go with my hubby & daughter when she's old enough since I had such a great time. If you ever get the chance to stay there for a night I'd really recommend it - we went looking for Kiwi at night & saw one, & I saw another one from my bed at dawn!!

http://www.kapitiislandalive.co.nz/GettingThere.html

http://www.kapitiislandalive.co.nz/

Have a great time!!!

[jess]

Thanks all.

Sarah I guess you're right -- not sure which one is with the lodge, but now that I think of it, it's just a 10 - 15 minute boat ride either way and a short intro, so it doesn't matter too much which one I choose. Thanks for the links to the lodge - has lots of good info.

By the way - ordered the permits yesterday and they arrived in the mail today!