Pateke Lagoons Lodge and Activities
Other Activities and Attractions:
Lake Papaitonga Scenic Reserve
(20 minutes) is a wonderful scenic reserve originally purchased by ornithologist, Sir Walter Buller. Excellent board walk, views of lake and waterfowl, large stand of native bush.
Kapiti Island:
If you have been fortunate enough to get a booking for the Kapiti Island Trip you are among the privileged, as it is a magnificent experience. The departure point for the Island is 15 minutes from Pateke Lagoons, and we can organise a box lunch for you for the day, along with any other items you may have forgotten, such as parkas, hats etc. The change that has come about on Kapiti with the eradication of rats and possums is testament to a huge effort by DOC and its staff and volunteers. Now the bush is filled with the sounds and sights of native birds that have virtually disappeared elesewhere. Peter goes fishing near Kapiti and one of his favourite activities is to drift close by the Island to listen to the birds, particularly the kaka, and the tui. If the weather is fine you are welcome to join him. He also takes friends on a trip right around the Island for early morning bird watching.
On the other hand, if the weather has gone against you and the Trip to Kapiti has been postponed why not stay at Pateke Lagoons Wetlands, and we will try to find somewhere else to visit. It is 'possible' to re-book on line with DOC for the Trip, but not always.
We can usually book Kapiti Island places for you given advance notice. It is a lot easier to do from NZ than from overseas.
Estuaries:
Manawatu, Otaki, and Waikane Rivers all have interesting river mouth and estuarine areas that are reasonably accessible and give great opportunities to see waders. They are all within 40 minutes of Pateke Lagoons Wetlands. The Brown Teal or pateke, has been sighted on occasion in the Waikanae Estuary. Manawatu Estuary Royal Spoonbill ,July. Forest and Bird have good information on Manawatu Estuary which is now a RAMSAR World Heritage Site.See more
Pautahanui Inlet is a well-known estuary closer to Wellington with a marvellous marshland in its upper reaches. (35 minutes)
Nga Manu Wildlife Sanctuary
Nga Manu is well worth a visit and a popular place especially amongst family groups. (15 minutes)
Mt Bruce Bird Sanctuary is the DOC-owned native bird sanctuary. It is on the other side of the Tararua Ranges from Kapiti Coast, about two hours drive, but is well worth a day trip. It is from here that the wonderful story of recovery of our most precious rare and endangered native birds really takes hold. A must for all Birders.