Farewell Spit Nature Experience
The four hour tour
Immerse yourself in this dramatic land of shifting sands and migrating wildlife. Travel the length of Farewell Spit to the Lighthouse Reserve while we share unique insights into the many intrigues of this world-class wildlife sanctuary and wetland of international significance.
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A Unique Wilderness and Wildlife Experience
New Zealand's longest sandspit - beautiful, surreal and vast. Farewell Spit provides a rewarding haven for many thousands of migratory wading birds and native wildlife such as New Zealand Fur Seals and Australasian Gannets.
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Re-discover Farewell Spit's Fascinating History
Through the geology and geography of this dynamic landscape learn of the origin and ongoing creation of Farewell Spit.
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Be Informed, Entertained and Comfortable
Our professional and friendly guides are there for you. Ready to assist, answer questions and spot camouflaged wildlife. Our modern air-conditioned 4wd vehicles are comfortable, reliable, safe and provide excellent views along the way.
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Rich Human History
First settled in the 13th Century, this area has always been highly prized, first by Maori and later by Europeans for its diverse and valuable resources. Your guide will introduce you to this fascinating history.
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Start Your Journey Relaxed and Ready
Your tour begins at Farewell Spit Visitor Centre and Paddlecrab Kitchen. Browse the informative displays, have a meal or a fresh espresso. Enjoy the view!
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Satisfy Your Soul and Your Stomach
A day out in the wild can be draining even as you feel revived by the sea breeze. At the Lighthouse we'll take time to enjoy a light refreshment of tea and coffee, chilled juice and cookies. Yummy!
What We'll Experience Along the Way
On the outward journey your knowledgeable guide will interpret this wondrous landscape for you. We'll pause along the way to photograph and enjoy the ever-changing wildlife and expansive scenery of Farewell Spit Nature Reserve. See the aptly named Gobi Desert, sand pans and fresh-water lakes.
Your destination is our historic day-hut at the foot of Farewell Spit Lighthouse, where refreshments are served. Here you have time to enjoy images and artifacts of life on the Spit and explore the Lighthouse Reserve.
We then take you beyond the lighthouse to marvel at Australasian gannets as they come and go from their colony, and experience the solitude of this remote and desolate place.
On the return journey, you have the opportunity to ascend one of the massive barchan sand dunes, and the option of traversing the hinterland of the Nature Reserve.
On your tour you will ride in one of our comfortable modern air-conditioned 4-wheel-drive vehicles.
REAL EXPERIENCES
February 2006
Dear Chris,
We had an awesome day made very special by our very knowledgeable and friendly host. Thanks so much for a brilliant day.
February 2006
We really enjoyed both our trips. Particularly learning about our fauna and flora. That being kiwis, we still can learn something about our beautiful country. The trip to the lighthouse we loved and the stories you told us about the area and also the birds. It made our day most enjoyable and we would like to commend your passion and enjoyment you show for the environment. Thanks!
