Te Pakeka/Maud Island & Pelorus Sound Trip

Join Pelorus tours and DOC rangers on a memorable trip through the beautiful Pelorus Sound to Te Pakeka/Maud Island. This is a unique opportunity to visit an island that is otherwise closed to the public. The full-day experience includes a scenic boat ride with stops to encounter marine wildlife, the opportunity to see some of the island’s rare species and a guided walk to the island’s WW2 gun emplacement. Please book online.

ITINERARY:
After completing biosecurity checks we will depart Havelock marina, cruising down the beautiful Pelorus Sound. We will visit a mussel farm, followed by nesting shags at Dillon Bell and a Gannet colony at Waimaru (weather permitting). From Waimaru we will travel to Te Pakeka/Maud Island, the Tom Shand Scientific Reserve. This island visit involves a walk that is guided by a DOC ranger, along a relatively level old farm track, to a WW2 gun emplacement.

On Maud Island there are a range of rare and endangered species, many not seen elsewhere. The DOC island ranger will deliver a presentation and give an overview of these species. They will endeavour to present a range of animals, which may or may not include Maud Island frogs, geckos and skinks, weta, and giant snails. We cannot guarantee which species will be available for viewing and some may be shown in containers due to their nocturnal nature.

The main threats to the island are weeds, animal pests and the spread of a chytrid virus (a threat to frogs). Therefore, all visitors are required to undergo DOC's biosecurity checks before departing Havelock. Shoes and clothing will be inspected before boarding the boat. Dirty gear and bags (including camera bags) will not be allowed on the island. All visitors who are 12 years and over must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Vaccination proof must be provided in the form of a vaccine pass.

This is a DOC Summer Explorer Programme Event.